Bloomington Police announced Monday in a press release they would be conducting extra patrols to enforce safe driving, prevent drunk driving and to use their seat belts from Friday until Dec. 4.
“With Thanksgiving being a major travel time each year, it’s important we stay vigilante,” BPD Sgt. Dana Cole said in the release.
BPD is a part of the Monroe County Traffic Safety Partnership, which is made up of BPD officers, Ellettsville Police and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
These increased patrols and enforcement of traffic laws is a state-wide effort meant to reduce injuries and deaths from vehicle crashes and drunk driving during the holiday season when greater numbers of people are traveling.
Monroe County TSP will support and be supported by more than 250 state and local law enforcement agencies in conducting highly visible patrols to encourage safer driving, according to the release.
The additional patrols will be supported by additional federal funding from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and their traffic safety division. Cole said this is an important issue as people go into the holidays and both cops and civilians need to keep an eye on other drivers, according to the release.
“If you see something unsafe on the roads, don’t hesitate to call 911 and report it,” Cole said in the release.
In November 2015, there were 533 alcohol-related crashes in Indiana. Those crashes resulted in 220 injuries and seven deaths, according to ICJI records.
During that same time, another 285 accidents were reported in which either a driver or passenger was not wearing a seat belt. Of those crashes, 302 injuries were reported with 16 deaths.
“That’s why it’s so important for those behind the wheel to buckle up and drive sober,” Cole said in the release. “It’s also important to watch out for your fellow travelers.”
ICJI director Dave Murtaugh said in the release the statistics prove a good point about following safety regulations on the roads, not just during holiday seasons but all the time.
“Through statistics we know firsthand buckling up, staying sober behind the wheel and not texting and driving not only protects those traveling with you, but also those with whom you are sharing the road,” Murtaugh said in the release.
Vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children between the ages of 8 and 15, according to the release. Properly installed and secured child seats will help decrease the percent of injuries and deaths for children.
Parents are encouraged to visit www.childseat.in.gov for a list of locations and phone number to call so they can speak to experts on how to properly install child booster seats.
Murtaugh said safety on the roads is a huge concern and it is necessary that law enforcement work with civilians to protect people as they travel and to make “our roadways the safest in the country,” according to the release.
“That’s why it’s vital we work together, from officers patrolling our streets, to drivers making safe and responsible choices,” Murtaugh said in the release.
Dominick Jean
