“We are concerned with our fatality numbers,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Prather. “The year started with a reduction, but increased in May and most of June.”
Overall, fatalities are on the rise. As of July 15, there were 405 fatalities, three more than at the same time last year. Of the 335 killed in passenger car crashes, 62 percent were not wearing seat belts and 22 percent involved alcohol. Similarly, 63 percent of those killed in motorcycle crashes were not wearing a helmet.
“Our office has identified 37 counties as our target areas,” said Boyd Sigler, director of the KOHS Division of Highway Safety Programs. “Law enforcement will be out in force, citing anyone committing traffic violations. Whether you drive a car or motorcycle, you must obey the law.”
Officers will patrol all roadways in their designated city or county but with a special emphasis on areas where most fatalities have occurred.
“We hope our combined efforts will encourage everyone to wear a seat belt or helmet, drive the speed limit, and never drive impaired,” said Prather.
Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that seat belts, when worn correctly, reduce the risk of fatalities by 45 percent for front-seat vehicle occupants, and by 60 percent for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants. Also according to NHTSA, regular seat belt use is the single most effective way to protect against and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes.
There were 826 fatalities on Kentucky roadways in 2008, including 649 people in motor vehicles. Of those, 70 percent were not buckled up and over 20 percent involved alcohol.
Total Highway Fatalities
2000 823
2001 843
2002 915
2003 931
2004 964
2005 985
2006 913
2007 864
2008 826
Post a Comment
