WEST CHESTER, PA — With the bustling holiday travel season underway, several state and local agencies gathered yesterday at the Chester County Historic Courthouse in West Chester to promote safe driving practices. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police, West Chester Borough Police Department, West Goshen Township Police Department, AAA, and the Chester County District Attorney collaborated to emphasize the importance of seat belt use and sober driving as part of Operation Safe Holiday.
The safety initiative, which began on November 11, is anchored by the “Click It or Ticket” Thanksgiving enforcement campaign. This effort aims to ensure compliance with Pennsylvania’s seat belt laws, which are key to reducing injuries and fatalities during a period known for high traffic volumes. These laws require all passengers under the age of 18 to wear seat belts, as well as drivers and front-seat passengers. Additionally, children under two must travel in a rear-facing car seat, while those under four must be restrained in an approved child safety seat. Booster seats are required for children until their eighth birthday.
“Buckling up takes less than three seconds and is the most effective way to reduce the risk of death or serious injury in a vehicle crash,” said Pennsylvania State Police Cpl. Kelly MacIntyre. “We want everyone to arrive safely at their Thanksgiving dinners and holiday gatherings, and wearing a seat belt is one of the simplest ways to help ensure a safe arrival.”
The campaign also addresses the challenges of impaired driving. PennDOT and its partners stressed that while alcohol is a common focus, other substances—including marijuana, prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs—can also impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times. To combat these risks, law enforcement will conduct sobriety checkpoints, roving patrols, and other traffic safety initiatives from November 20 through the New Year holiday.
“When you get on the road, you are pledging to use safe driving practices to keep all road users safe,” said West Chester Borough Police Department Lt. James Gorman. “Anyone heading out to a bar or party must commit to staying sober for the night if they are driving or arrange for a sober ride home before they begin to drink alcohol.”
The statistics underscore the urgency of these measures. According to PennDOT data, 506 crashes occurred in the Philadelphia region during the Thanksgiving travel period of 2023, resulting in five fatalities. Of those crashes, 47 were linked to impaired driving, leading to three deaths. The dangers of impaired driving extend beyond alcohol consumption, with substances like marijuana and even commonplace medications posing significant risks.
“With nearly 72 million Americans expected to be on the road during the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, those who choose to drive while impaired are endangering not only themselves but also millions of others,” said Jana Tidwell, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “It is never acceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you are buzzed, drunk, or otherwise impaired. The risk of injury or death to yourself, your passengers, and other drivers is not worth it, especially when there are plenty of options available to get home safely.”
The agencies involved in Operation Safe Holiday urged motorists to take proactive steps to ensure safe travel, including:
- Always driving completely sober, as even small amounts of alcohol can impair decision-making.
- Selecting a designated driver before consuming alcohol or deciding on alternatives like rideshare services or taxis.
- Calling authorities if spotting impaired drivers on the road.
- Intervening if a friend plans to drink and drive, ensuring they find a safer option.
Through education, enforcement, and enhanced accountability, Operation Safe Holiday aims to create a safer travel environment for all. By reinforcing these critical safety messages, PennDOT and its local partners hope to reduce the risks during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
Before hitting the road this holiday season, make safety your top priority! Stay ahead of potential delays and hazardous weather by checking traffic and winter road conditions at the MyChesCo Traffic Center. Get real-time updates to plan your route, avoid disruptions, and ensure a smooth, safe trip for you and your loved ones. Visit the MyChesCo Traffic Center today to stay informed and travel with confidence.
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