Safe in 60: Please Do Your Part to Save Lives on Utah Roads

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Labor Day marks the end of the 100 deadliest days for traffic crashes. Unfortunately, we had more traffic deaths this summer than last year. While the Utah Department of Transportation won’t release official numbers for several days, at least 100 people died on Utah roads this summer.

One of the worst things about my job as a first responder is telling a family that one of their loved ones has been killed in a crash, and that’s why these reminders are so important.

On average, 270 people die each year from traffic crashes in Utah. Of those, 94 percent are caused by human error and are therefore completely preventable. When 94 percent of crashes are preventable, we’re not doing enough to keep ourselves and other safe on the roads.

Please wear your seat belt, and make sure that everyone in your vehicle is properly secured in a seat belt, car seat or booster. Approximately 30 percent of crash deaths could have been prevented if the drivers and passengers had been using proper restraints.

There is really no excuse to drink and drive. Between Lyft, Uber, taxis and designated drivers – if you plan to drink, safe transportation is available.

Remember – drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving.

Be mindful of distractions behind the wheel, such as texting, changing the radio station, putting on your lipstick or even brushing your teeth while on the way to work.

As school is just starting back in session, watch for school zones and pedestrians, and please slow down.

Reckless driving and speeding is never worth the risk to your safety or that of others. Be patient on the road, and give yourself plenty of time to arrive safely.

I know life can get hectic and stressful for all of us, but when you get in your car, please take a moment to think about those 94 percent of deaths that are preventable, and do your part to prevent those crashes from happening.

Read more: Safe in 60: 100 Deadliest Days