Staff Writer
The Tribune-Star
TERRE HAUTE —
Summer is waning and Labor Day is near. The weather forecast is great and gas prices are reasonably low and stable. Is it any surprise that AAA is projecting a 10 percent increase in the number of Americans traveling this holiday weekend?
Beginning today, Interstate 70 through west-central Indiana and east-central Illinois will be buzzing with traffic. Likewise for the U.S. 41 north-south corridor and other major thoroughfares.
Many people in the Wabash Valley will be joining the 724,000 Hoosiers expected to travel by auto at some point this weekend. It’s a great sign, really. While the economy still sputters, people are growing increasingly confident that things are getting better. They are setting out on trips and showing a willingness to spend money along the way.
But with increased traffic comes increased safety risks. It would be wise to consider that as you hit the road. Focusing on simple steps and travel practices will decrease those risks.
First and foremost, slow down. Speed is a primary cause of traffic crashes, and being in a hurry to get where you’re going may lead to you not arriving at all. Be aware of traffic flow as well. The more traffic on the roadways, the less opportunity you have to drive defensively if you are traveling too fast for the current conditions.
Second, fasten your seat belt, whether you are driving or riding. That alone can be the difference between injury, perhaps a serious one, and escaping a crash unscathed. If you are driving, take the extra time to make certain everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt. It’s the law, remember?
Third, be aware of construction zones. These are high-risk areas for motorists and highway workers. Keen attention to work zones is necessary to ensure safe travels.
Finally, don’t drink and drive. It seems almost absurd to have to remind anyone about this irresponsible and unsafe activity, but drunken driving and related traffic crashes are still all-too-frequent occurrences. Don’t take chances.
If the fear of hurting yourself, your loved ones or innocent people unlucky enough to be in your way is not enough of a deterrent, remember that police across the state will increase patrols in the next week to watch for drunken and impaired drivers. If you are caught, they will make your life miserable. Better you than those you may harm.
The Labor Day weekend is a great opportunity for individuals and families to enjoy the last vestiges of the summer season. Don’t let it be ruined by irresponsible behavior or inattention to fundamental principles of safe travel.
Enjoy your weekend.
Be careful out there.
