Governor Urges Safe Travel for Holiday Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, May 22, 2012

CONTACT: Terry Woster, Public Information Officer, 605.773.3178

 

        Governor Urges Safe Travel for Holiday Weekend

 

PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Dennis Daugaard is asking motorists to be extra cautious on South Dakota highways during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

 

South Dakota highways have been fatality-free during this three-day holiday weekend the last two years.  In 2011, however, 30 people were injured in 123 crashes. Eight of those crashes were alcohol-related, according to statistics from the State Office of Highway Safety.

 

“Memorial Day weekend is the kickoff for the summer travel season, and highways will almost certainly be busier than usual with many families traveling during the holiday period,’’ Gov. Daugaard said. “I hope everyone has a great time with family and friends. Please make safe choices as you travel, and please follow traffic laws that are in place to help keep all of us safe.’’

 

The Governor encourages drivers to:

           

• ·        Follow speed limits. It is not safe to travel faster than posted speed limits.
• ·        Wear a seatbelt. As the Office of Highway Safety slogan says, “Someone needs you. Buckle up.’’
• ·        Avoid drinking and driving.
• ·        Avoid distractions.
• ·        Slow down through construction zones, not only because fines are double in those zones but also for your own safety and the safety of highway workers.
        

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