STAY SAFE ON THE ROADS THIS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!
More Americans will be on the road this Memorial Day Weekend than last year, thanks to lower gas prices and special discounts at hotels. Indeed, nearly 40 million drivers are expected to fill highways this holiday weekend according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT reports that Memorial Day weekend is the third most perilous holiday for vehicular traffic. With that mind, please keep the following safety tips in mind:
1. Don't drive drowsy. According to the National Sleep Foundation's Report on Drowsy Driving, 1000,000 reported crashes, 71,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths every year are attributed to drivers falling asleep behind the wheel.
2. Wear your seat belt! The DOT reports that 50% of all vehicular deaths could have been prevented with seat belts. During the holiday weekend, drivers will notice more enforcement out on the roadways checking to make sure every driver is buckled up. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Illinois State Police (ISP) are teaming up with more than 300 local police agencies to mount the largest ever nighttime safety belt enforcement effort in Illinois. During the Memorial Day “Click it or Ticket” mobilization, motorists can expect more than 3,600 safety belt enforcement zones statewide, with almost 700 enforcement zones planned for after dark, the time when surveys show more drivers fail to buckle up.
3. Signal your intentions. Every move you make on the road impacts the decisions and actions of others. By signaling your intention to turn or change lanes, you ensure others are alert to your movements.
4. Do not tailgate. Leave a distance equal to one car length for every 10 mph. For example, if you are driving 50mph, you should fall back a distance equal to 5 car lengths from the vehicle in front of you. Move away from tailgaters and let them safely pass you.
5. Avoid standing water. If you must drive through water, do so slowly and avoid sudden use of your brakes, turning too sharply or excessive acceleration. If you hydroplane, do NOT hit the bakes. Reduce your speed by taking your foot off the accelerator and turning the wheel in the direction you want to travel.
6. Know pedestrian rights. Be aware of pedestrians at intersections and remember pedestrians have the right of way.
7. Turn on your headlights when visibility is low. While only 25% of the miles we drive are at night, about 50% of the fatalities occur at night time.
8. Obey the speed limit.
9. Stay alert! Talking on a cell phone, texting and reading maps can distract you from the road and lead to accidents.
10. Never drink and drive! Alcohol impairs judgment, motor coordination and ability to drive safely. Designate a drive or use public transportation if you plan to drink.
Over the weekend, as you remember the sacrifices of so many, show your respect for them and for life itself by exercising both common sense and courtesy on the road.
