Drivers urged to be alert

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The Delaware General Health District’s SAFE (Safety Awareness for Everyone) Delaware County Coalition is encouraging motorists to drive with precaution after last week three people died within days of each other in vehicle-related crashes.

With a total of four deaths, this month marks the deadliest December to occur within Delaware County in the last 10 years.

A total of 21 deaths have occurred statewide this year due to crashes, ending the highest record of 19 in 2009. Among the 21 were three teenagers, two young children, five senior adults and seven pedestrians. In addition, six were alcohol-related and six were not wearing seat belts.

Inclement weather may have also be attributed to some of the crashes.

“Drivers should allow extra time to get to their destination, maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the traffic ahead, pay close attention to bridges and overpasses — as they are often the first to freeze over — and to drive slowly, as everything including accelerating, turning and breaking take longer on snow-covered roadways,” said Ohio Highway Patrol Delaware Post Commander Lt. Marcus Pirrone.

The only overwhelming trend is that a traffic crash can turn fatal anywhere or any time. SAFE urges everyone to always be ready for a crash, wear a seat belt, do not drive if you are buzzed or drunk, distracted or just very tired.

Many of the SAFE Coalition partners provide vehicle safety inspections, CarFits for adult drivers, safety classes for senior drivers, traffic and pedestrian safety presentations and car and booster seat checks along with free child safety seats for eligible Delaware County residents.

To learn more contact SAFE Delaware Coordinator Jackie Bain at 740-203-2083 or [email protected].

Staff report

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