This isn’t another one of those “don’t drink and drive” lectures.
At least not entirely.
You already know that getting high and driving are not a good combination, right?
You may know that the Kansas Highway Patrol and law enforcement officers across the state have been out in extra numbers this month and will continue to be on the lookout for impaired drivers through Jan. 1.
The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation. According to KDOT, 18 people were killed in drunk driving crashes between Dec. 16, 2021, and Jan. 1, 2022. Since 2009, over 1,300 people have died in alcohol-related crashes in Kansas. Nationwide in 2020, one person was killed every 45 minutes in an alcohol-related crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
But there’s more to the new year than not driving drunk. In addition to looking for impaired drivers this weekend, KHP is also focusing on child passenger safety laws and seat belt use among travelers of all ages.
Speaking of traveling, KHP reminds motorists to prepare their vehicles for the road by replacing wiper blades, ensuring the tires have good tread and checking the vehicle’s fluids, exhaust system, and other mechanical equipment.
Other KHP tips:
• Always wear your seat belt and properly secure children in the appropriate safety seats.
• If you’re involved in a non-injury crash that involves non-hazardous materials, move your vehicle out of the lane of traffic to protect yourself as well as other motorists.
• Always make sure you designate a sober driver for a safe ride home from your holiday festivities. Law enforcement will be out working, and they remind you that “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.”
• The vehicle should also be stocked with items that would be beneficial if you were involved in a crash, such as bottled water, blankets, non-perishable food, a first aid kit and a flashlight with extra batteries.
• When you leave, start with a full tank of gas and a fully charged phone.
• Dress for the weather. If you plan to travel in cold weather, make sure you have a coat in the vehicle and warm shoes in case you need to stop for any reason.
• Check your route of travel for road conditions and/or construction work or other delays before you leave. Call 5-1-1 from any phone or visit kandrive.org to check road conditions in the state of Kansas.
• As you travel, remember to MOVE OVER for first responders and highway maintenance crews. If you are unable to MOVE OVER, then please SLOW DOWN.
• If you plan on consuming alcohol, the KHP says to arrange for a designated driver ahead of time. Do not drink and drive, and do not let your family or friends drive while impaired. The KHP recommends that if you are hosting a party, to have non-alcoholic drink alternatives available for designated drivers.
If you find yourself in need of assistance on a Kansas highway this holiday season, the KHP says to please dial *47 (*HP) or dial *582 (*KTA) on the Kansas Turnpike, and they will send someone to assist.
Whether you travel or spend the weekend at home, have a safe and happy new year.
