PROVIDENCE – More Rhode Islanders than ever before are buckling up when they get in the car, the R.I. Department of Transportation announced today. The state’s seatbelt usage rate has risen to 79.1 percent this year from 74.2 percent last year, the DOT said.
“As we approach the heart of the summer season, more Rhode Islanders are listening to our safety messages and are now buckling up,” said RIDOT Director Jerome F. Williams. “Yet, as we acknowledge this accomplishment, we also need to remind motorists who aren’t buckling up that a seat belt will increase the odds of surviving a crash by 50 percent.”
That’s especially important in the runup to the Fourth of July, which the RIDOT said is traditionally the deadliest day on American roads, closely followed by July 2 and 3. Roadway congestion – expected to heavier than ever this year, as AAA predicts record holiday travel this Fourth of July – is a key factor, the RIDOT said, along with speed and alcohol
That’s why state and local police will be on the lookout for impaired drivers over the summer, and especially over the next few days, the DOT said, adding: “If you drink and drive, you lose.”
For more information, including safe driving tips, visit www.dot.state.ri.us/news.
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