The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has released data showing that highway fatalities are 13 percent higher than they were this time last year. The first third of 2012 brought 288 highway deaths. In response, state agencies have initiated a number of measures to bring that number down, including overhead message boards that broadcast the number of fatal car accidents on the highway that day.
“It’s my hope that seeing this number will be a sobering reminder to all motorists and will help change the behaviors that contribute to these deadly crashes,” said TDOT commissioner John Schroer.
TDOT is teaming up with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) to crack down on seatbelt infractions.
“Nearly half this year’s fatalities involved motorists who were not wearing a seatbelt, and we know many of those victims would have likely survived had they been,” said THP Colonel Tracy Trott. “Troopers will be out in full force and if you’re not buckled up – you will get a ticket.”
Tennessee has primary seatbelt laws, which means that police officers can legally pull you over if they spot you not wearing a seatbelt.
Keep seatbelts in mind during this year’s Click It or Ticket campaign, which lasts from May 21 to June 3. By taking a few extra seconds to make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled in, you could save precious lives.
“Today I invoke heaven and earth as a witness against you that I have set life and death, blessing and curse, before you. Therefore choose life so that you and your descendants may live!” – Deuteronomy 30:19.