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During Holiday Travel, Just Drive!
EMS/Trauma Providers Urge Safe, Non-Distracted Driving
CITY – Local EMS, hospital and trauma providers urge residents of NAME of Town or County to focus on their driving as they visit family for Christmas. “Many Texans will take to the roads to visit family and friends this month, and it’s easy to become distracted or drowsy while driving,” said NAME, title.
“At this time of year, many people are stressed, running late and tired, all of which can lead to distracted, dangerous driving. Using electronic devices or trying to deal with unruly children or other passengers distractions compound the situation,” said LAST Name. “Name of RAC or Hospital is participating in the Texas EMS, Trauma & Acute-Care Foundation’s campaign Just Drive! As health care providers, we see the consequences of distracted driving. At this joyous time of year, no one wants an accident to mar their holiday celebration. We urge drivers to stay focused, and drive safely.”
According to the Texas Department of Transportation's website, www.txdot.gov, during last year’s holiday season (Dec. 1, 2013 – Jan. 1, 2014), there were 2,367 DUI-alcohol traffic crashes in Texas resulting in 763 serious injuries and 92 fatalities. While these figures are staggering, DUI traffic fatalities actually decreased 8.9 percent compared with the same time frame the previous year.
TxDOT’s analysis of accidents shows that most crashes in Texas result from speeding, failure to yield, driving under the influence of alcohol, following too closely and running red lights and stop signs. Statistics also show that one in four crashes involves driver distraction. Drivers who use cell phones in their vehicles have a higher risk of collision than drivers who don't, whether holding the phone or using a hands-free device, TxDoT states.
Safe driving includes the following behaviors:
· Wear your safety belt every trip, every time – even when traveling a short distance, and make sure all other passengers, including all children, are buckled up before you drive;
· Drive the speed limit and slow down if weather or road conditions are not optimum;
· Don’t consume alcohol and drive;
· Pay attention, put down the phone and don’t text and drive; and
· Take frequent breaks and get enough rest – drowsy driving is dangerous driving.
Motorists can obtain the latest information about road conditions online at www.drivetexas.org. The Texas Department of Public Safety has a helpline to help motorists in need. If your vehicle breaks down or you need other help, call the helpline at 1-800/525-5555.
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