‘Put the Brakes on Fatalities’ today

MONTROSE — Put the brakes on — on fatalities, that is.

The Colorado State Patrol is reminding the public of driving safety tips as part of “Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day,” today, Oct. 10.

According to the CSP, 43,000 people die each year nationwide in traffic crashes — 118 a day, and one every 12 minutes. In Colorado last year, 554 people died — including motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.

Responsible driving choices can help prevent fatal crashes.

“One careless decision can impact many lives,” CSP Chief Mark Trotsel said in a news release. “By driving the posted speed limit, always buckling up yourself and your passengers, not tail-gating or driving distracted and never drinking and driving, we can make our roadways safer for everyone.”

Alcohol and lack of seat belt usage were the most common factors in the state’s fatal crashes last year. Two-hundred, twenty-six fatal crashes involved alcohol and only 157 motorists in the crashes properly used seat belts or child safety restraints.

The CSP offers the following reminder tips:

•  Automobile drivers should always buckle up, never drink and drive, avoid aggressive drivers and driving aggressively, always be attentive (don’t allow phones, radios, kids or other activities to distract) and following the speed limit, including the speed limit in work and school zones.

•  Motorcyclists need to watch the “no zones” and never stay in a vehicle’s blind spot; always wear a helmet and safety gear; be cautious and pay attention to the signals and brakes of other vehicles; inspect bike prior to usage; don’t drink and drive, follow all speed limits.

•  Pedestrians should use sidewalks and crosswalks when possible, paying attention to walk signals and keeping a safe distance from traffic when standing on corners; use caution when crossing; makes selves visible.

•  Bicyclists are advised to always wear helmets, be aware of traffic and never assume all drivers can see them; check brakes and be prepared to stop; ride with traffic and follow the rules of the road.