The Iowa State Patrol is ramping up its efforts to ensure safety on the road this New Year with their Critical Accident Reduction Effort (CARE) initiative. Trooper Paul Gardner emphasizes the importance of reducing serious injuries and traffic fatalities during the holiday season by increasing law enforcement visibility and cracking down on issues like speeding, distracted driving, seat belt non-compliance, and impaired driving.
Extra officers will be patrolling the roadways to address these safety concerns head-on. Trooper Gardner stresses the significance of planning ahead if you plan on consuming alcohol during your New Year’s celebration. He urges everyone to designate a sober driver to ensure a safe journey home, highlighting the alarming statistic that over 50% of the 34 traffic fatalities on Iowa roadways in December 2023 involved an intoxicated driver.
Stay Safe This New Year
As the countdown to the New Year begins, it’s crucial to prioritize safety on the road. Trooper Gardner’s reminder to plan ahead and secure a designated driver if you’ll be drinking alcohol is a simple yet effective way to prevent accidents and save lives. By taking proactive steps to ensure responsible celebrations, we can all contribute to a safer and happier start to the new year.
Make Smart Choices
With Iowa ranking among the top 16 states for fatal crashes on New Year’s night, it’s clear that the risks are higher during this festive period. By making smart choices and avoiding impaired driving, we can protect ourselves and others on the road. Remember, a single decision to designate a sober driver can make all the difference in keeping our roads safe and accident-free.
Spread the Word
Let’s spread the word about the importance of responsible driving this New Year. Share Trooper Gardner’s message with your friends and family to encourage everyone to plan ahead and prioritize safety. Together, we can make a positive impact and ensure that the holiday season is filled with joy and peace, both on and off the road.
