Kentucky is promoting Operation Crash Reduction (OCR) to help drivers and passengers remember the importance of seat belt use and other safe driving practices, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
“Law enforcement will conduct a high-visibility enforcement campaign, emphasizing seat belt use” beginning Friday and running through Monday.
“While drivers can never control who they share the road with, one thing within everyone’s control is the decision to buckle up and put the phone down every time you get in a vehicle to keep you, and others safe,” Gov. Andy Beshear said.
The KYTC is joined by the Office of Highway Safety (KOHS), state and local law enforcement and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to promote and support the operation.
“While we always encourage safe driving practices, this specialized campaign focuses on the importance of buckling up,” KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said. “If you are involved in a crash, properly fastened child seats and seat belts provide the best defense against injury or death.”
OCR is focused on NHTSA Region 3, consisting of Delaware, the District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia — a region that sees some of the nation’s highest numbers of traffic deaths.
Between 2015 and 2019, October was the most likely month for fatal crashes in these states with 1,785 fatality wrecks. In those accidents, more than 46 percent of occupant deaths in passenger vehicles, trucks and buses were unrestrained, the NHTSA said.
Last year there were 229 injuries and 10 deaths on Kentucky roadways during the Columbus Day weekend, according to the KYTC.
“That is why we are working with NHTSA and our state and local law enforcement partners to encourage motorists to buckle up and put the phone down,” Gray said.
According to the NHTSA, when worn correctly, seat belts reduce the risk of fatalities by 45 percent for front seat vehicle occupants and by 60 percent for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants.
For more information on seat belts, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts
(Photo courtesy of freepik.com)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
