Governor Urges Highway and Traffic Safety Over Holiday Weekend

Governor urges highway and traffic safety over holiday weekend

‘Drunk drivers who endanger others will be punished,' Governor says

Salem, Oregon- As families prepare to celebrate Labor Day weekend, Governor Ted Kulongoski urged drivers to practice responsible highway and traffic safety.

"No Oregonian has the right to endanger others on the roads," said the Governor. "If you drink and drive, you will be caught, arrested and punished."

In 2004, drinking and driving contributed to nearly 17,000 deaths, including 204 in Oregon. Traffic fatalities kill more than 42,000 each year, and are the leading cause of death for those between ages 4 and 34. They disproportionately kill young Oregonians; people aged 16 to 20 are twice as likely to die in car accidents as the average American.

An increased state trooper presence over the holiday weekend will be watching for impaired and careless motorists.

The Governor said that the critical work of the Oregon State Police protecting the roads over Labor Day weekend is another reason to boost the number of troopers. Last month, the Governor called for a restoration of 24/7 coverage of Oregon State Trooper to improve highway safety and reduce the flow of out-of-state methamphetamine.

The Governor also urged students returning to school next week to practice basic traffic safety when on the roads.

"Failure to wear safety belts greatly increases the risk of injury and death," said the Governor. "Please be careful when you're on the road - especially if you're going on a road trip to one of our beautiful state parks or traveling over long distances."

http://www.governor.state.or.us/Gov/p2006/press_090106.shtml