FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, December 22, 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 representatives from state and local officials at a news conference in Cooperstown to remind motorists to drive safely during the busy holiday travel season.

Otsego County Sheriff Don Mundy, Carl Higgins, chairman of the Otsego County Board and other local officials joined Commissioner Martinez at the event. Commissioner Martinez also awarded Sheriff Mundy a Traffic Safety Award for his department's outstanding record in the area of traffic safety and for the exceptional efforts by the Otsego County STOP-DWI program.

"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

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

"The Otsego County STOP-DWI and Traffic Safety Programs reminds everyone about the importance of safe driving and responsible hosting during the holiday season. This is peak time for deaths and injuries resulting from crashes on our state's roads and highways and we ask everyone to take extra care." Sheriff Mundy said, "Please remember, always buckle up, ensure that child safety seats are installed and used properly and most importantly, never drink and drive. Wishing everyone a happy holiday season and safe travels."

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."

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.