(INDIANAPOLIS) – Indiana State Police will be cracking down on dangerous and impaired driving.
From February 26 through March 21, ISP troopers will be taking part in a statewide enforcement campaign, by conducting high-visibility patrols, and showing zero tolerance for those driving aggressively, over the speed limit or under the influence. The overtime patrols are going to be funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through an Indiana Criminal Justice Institute grant.
On average, drunk-driving crashes claim more than 10,000 lives per year in the U.S., according to recent statistics. Although 2020 was a unique year due to the coronavirus pandemic, preliminary data shows that while miles traveled had decreased by about 14.5 percent in the first nine months, overall traffic fatalities increased by 4.6 percent nationwide.
In addition, a separate report released from NHTSA revealed that more road users engaged in risky behaviors in 2020 such as speeding or driving under the influence, and that fewer motorists wore seat belts.
Despite having fewer drivers on the road in Indiana, 2020 was the third highest year for traffic fatalities (850) in the past decade, according to ICJI.
Dangerous driving includes such factors as speeding, tailgating and disregarding a traffic signal, all of which are against the law in Indiana. To avoid the potential for legal fees and criminal charges, the Indiana State Police recommends following these simple steps: Slow down and follow all posted speed limits; Never drive impaired; If you plan on drinking, plan for a safe, sober ride home; Do not tailgate or drive aggressively; Put down the phone and avoid distracted driving and Wear your seatbelt every trip, every time.