Submitted
As summer begins, the “100 Days of Summer” also begins. According to statistics, the period of time from graduations to the start of school is a dangerous time on our highways.
Increased travel, more time for teen drivers to be behind the wheel, the use of motorcycles as a means of transportation and the increase in daylight hours all contribute to the numbers of increased crashes and fatalities. Special events such as the Fourth of July and Labor Day, and festivals and special events that include alcohol as a part of the celebrations, just add to the increased dangers.
Although the term “100 Days of Summer” often refers to teen driver safety, all motorists should be aware that statistically the summer months can increase the chance for a motor vehicle crash.
“Safe Communities of Pickaway County encourages all drivers and passengers to remember to buckle up, since it is statistically the number one way to survive a crash if it occurs,” said Teresa C. Carper, director of the Safe Communities of Pickaway County program. “Also, if you plan to involve alcohol in your summer activities, please find a designated driver to make sure you get home safely.”
To date, Pickaway County has not seen a motor vehicle fatality in 2015. This is significantly down from last year at this time, and Safe Communities would like to reach their goal of a fatal-free year.
By remembering to “Stay Alive, Don’t Text and Drive,” as well as remembering to “Buckle Up Every Trip Every Time” and remembering the importance of safe speed limits, drivers and passengers can help Safe Communities reach this very important goal.
Safe driving information and special enforcement periods such as the pending Fourth of July “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, can be found at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website at www.nhtsa.gov.
This article originally appeared on The Pickaway News Journal
