Oct. 10 is ‘Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day’

Sep, 30-2009 12:03 pm

VENTNOR – Motorists throughout the nation are being asked to join a day-long effort Oct. 10 designed to increase awareness about safe driving and keep the roadways fatality-free for one day.

Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day is a national initiative designed to unite the country in moving toward zero fatalities for one full day by encouraging motorists to obey all traffic laws, including buckling up every ride, driving the posted speed limit, avoiding distractions while driving, and always being sober behind the wheel.

The Ventnor City Police Department plans to increase enforcement of motor vehicle violations such as cell phone use, speeding, careless driving and failure to wear seat belts.

Last year in New Jersey, 591 lives were lost in motor vehicle crashes, a 19 percent decline from the previous year. It is lowest number of recorded motor vehicle deaths here since 1948, according to a press release.

“Clearly, this effort will go a long way in our continuing efforts to stem the tide of tragedies that occur every day on New Jersey’s roadways,” Sgt. Charles Wood said. “Shining the spotlight on this one day can help create a groundswell of support for safe driving practices that can carry over throughout the year.”

Police departments have been asked to report crash information for Oct. 10 to the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety, which will post it on its website and distribute it to the media.

Last year 1,065 crashes took place in New Jersey on the day, resulting in 201 injuries and two fatalities.

For information see www.brakesonfatalities.org, www.njsaferoads.com or www.ventnorcitypolice.org.

-- Shaun Smith