The Seymour Police Department recently stepped up patrols to help curb impaired driving.
North Vernon Police Department also is participating in the enforcement campaign that started March 10 and will be in effect until April 4.
The safety initiative is designed to reduce crashes and traffic fatalities and promote safe driving around special events that are occurring during the month of March such as the NCAA tournaments and St. Patrick’s Day.
In response to roadway deaths increasing across the state and nation, officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols over the next several weeks. Patrols will be showing zero tolerance for anyone driving aggressively, over the speed limit or under the influence.
This enforcement campaign is funded through National Highway Traffic Safety Administration grants administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute.
“Every person that chooses to drive recklessly or impaired represents a serious threat to public safety,” SPD Lt. Michael Cooper said. “Choices behind the wheel matter. One mistake is all it takes for someone to get injured. We’re asking all drivers to take responsibility and make smart decisions. Let’s work together to keep our roads and community safe.”
According to NHTSA data, nationwide traffic fatalities continue to rise at an alarming rate. An estimated 31,720 people were killed on U.S. roadways in the first nine months of 2021, a 12% increase from the same period in 2020.
Data from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute show in Indiana alone, 941 people died in fatal crashes last year. While that number is up 5% from 2020, it’s a 16% increase from pre-pandemic 2019 and represents the highest number of traffic fatalities since 2005.
Alcohol and drug impairment, distracted driving, speeding and not wearing seat belts are some of the leading causes behind the rise in fatalities.
“Last year, Indiana saw more traffic fatalities than we’ve seen in over a decade, and it doesn’t appear to be improving,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI executive director. ” So far this year, fatal crashes in Indiana have claimed the lives of two and a half people every day on average with over 100 lives lost already. It’s going to take an all-hands-on-deck approach to turn this around.”
Throughout the campaign, the Seymour Police Department will be encouraging motorists to focus on safe driving and follow the rules of the road. This includes wearing a seat belt at all times, driving sober, watching for pedestrians, driving distraction-free and obeying all posted speed limits.
The department said some precautions should be taken before getting behind the wheel. For plans that involve alcohol, designate a sober driver ahead of time or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
Motorists are encouraged to call 911 if they encounter an impaired or unsafe driver on the road.