FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, December 21, 2004 http://www.safeny.com

 

Raymond P. Martinez, chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) and commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV) today joined state and local law enforcement and traffic safety representatives at a news conference in Watertown to remind motorists to drive safely during the busy holiday travel season.

Jefferson County Sheriff John P. Burns and Chairman of the Board of Legislators Robert J. Thomas joined Commissioner Martinez at the event. Representatives from the surrounding local police agencies also participated.

"The holiday season is upon us and many New Yorkers do a lot of traveling this time of year," Commissioner Martinez said. "Poor driving conditions combined with the increased number of vehicles on the roadways can make for dangerous driving, especially when alcohol is added to the mix. To ensure that everyone arrives alive, I urge New Yorkers to be safe while traveling: never drink and drive, drive within the speed limit and buckle up."

In 2003, there were 1,477 fatal crashes on New York State's roadways. Of those crashes, approximately 30% involved unsafe speed and 13% involved alcohol.

Holiday Week* Fatality Statistics Statewide:

	All Accidents		Alcohol Related		Speed Related		Speed and Alcohol		Number of Hours
Year	Accidents	Deaths	Accidents	Deaths	Accidents	Deaths	Accidents	Deaths
2001	52	65	22	26	14	16	8	10	198
2002	22	23	6	6	7	8	4	4	198
2003	24	28	5	6	6	8	2	3	198

*Holiday Week Period:
2001: Dec. 24, 2001 @ 6pm to Jan. 1, 2002 @ 11:59 pm
2002: Dec. 24, 2002 @ 6pm to Jan. 1, 2003 @ 11:59 pm
2003: Dec. 24, 2003 @ 6pm to Jan. 1, 2004 @ 11:59 pm

Assemblywoman Dede Scozzafava said, "As with every holiday season, the roads will be busy with people traveling to visit family and friends. I encourage everyone on the road to drive safely by being aware of road conditions and other vehicles on the road. And of course, obey all traffic laws. Help keep the holidays a happy time by not drinking and driving and not letting friends get behind the wheel while under the influence."

At the news conference, New York State Police and local police agencies noted they will be stepping up their enforcement efforts during the holidays.

State Police Superintendent Wayne E. Bennett said, "Once again, this holiday season, Troopers will be especially vigilant in their efforts to seek out aggressive and impaired drivers as well as those who fail to use safety restraints for themselves and their children. We ask that everyone take personal responsibility on the road this season to help avoid the preventable tragedies that taint an otherwise happy time of year."

Jefferson County Sheriff John P. Burns said, "The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, New York State Police and City of Watertown Police have teamed up this Christmas season in an effort to see everyone get to their destination safely. While we want everyone to enjoy themselves throughout the holidays, those who chose to drink and drive should consider themselves fore-warned. Extra patrols will be out seeking drink and aggressive drivers and taking them off the roads."

Commissioner Martinez offers these tips for highway safety during the holidays:

• Don't drive while tired or drowsy. Try to have a companion to share the driving. When tired, pull off the highway at a designated rest stop, stretch your legs, and take it easy before resuming your journey.
• Don't drive aggressively. Drive defensively and be aware of the other drivers on the highway. Slow down in heavy traffic. Do not tailgate, be more cautious in inclement weather.
• Give yourself enough time to travel to your destination without hurrying or speeding.
• Be sure your vehicle is in good running condition. Make sure tires are properly inflated.
• CERTAINLY, DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE. Many of New York State's most serious accidents are alcohol-related. If you choose to drink, have an individual who hasn't been drinking designated to drive or take a cab.
• Enjoy the holidays, drink responsibly, drive carefully, and arrive safely at your destination.