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Lawmen to drivers: Be responsibleDec 31, 2012 (The Laurinburg Exchange - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- With the upcoming New Year's holiday, the state Highway Patrol is asking motorists to help bring a safe end to 2012 by not driving impaired, buckling-up and keeping their focus on the road. Last year in North Carolina, 10 people died in motor vehicle related crashes between Christmas and New Year's. During this year's two-day Christmas Holiday, two people were killed in traffic-related crashes, the patrol said. Year-to-date troopers have investigated 5,545 collisions that were attributed to alcohol impairment. That number is a slightly higher from last year's total of 5,310. To combat that slight increase, troopers have made over 23,000 driving while impaired arrests thus far this year. "Our troopers will be very vigilant in locating and removing impaired drivers off North Carolina highways as we approach the New Year holiday," said Colonel Michael Gilchrist, commander of the Highway Patrol. "Our ultimate goal is provide a safe driving environment for all motorists." To prevent needless injuries and deaths due to alcohol impairment this holiday season, the Highway Patrol suggests these simple tips: -- Be responsible -- Designate a sober driver -- Call a cab, friend or family member if you find yourself in a situation where you had too much to drink -- Spend the night where you are, if at all possible You may report impaired and erratic drivers by simply dialing *Hp or *47 on a cellular phone. Callers should give the description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license plate number if at all possible. "We all need to do our part to stay safe as we travel on our highways this holiday season. Be responsible, call a friend or family member, but please don't drink and drive! The choice you make can be the difference between life and death!" said First Sergeant Jeff Gordon, Public Information Officer. ___ (c)2013 The Laurinburg Exchange (Laurinburg, N.C.) Visit The Laurinburg Exchange (Laurinburg, N.C.) at www.laurinburgexchange.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |