Maryland has implemented a statewide initiative to greatly reduce the number of traffic fatalities to zero in August, historically the deadliest month for traffic accidents in Maryland. According to The Historic Annapolis Patch, the Annapolis Police Department (APD) will be fully participating in the statewide “Toward Zero Deaths” effort to significantly reduce fatal traffic accidents during August.
According to an APD news release, there were 500 traffic accident deaths in Maryland during 2010. To reach the goal of zero for August, the APD is sending driver’s a message to slow down, drive sober, and pay attention to both the road and other motorists.
As part of the Toward Zero Deaths effort, the APD will be increasing enforcement in high accident rate areas throughout the city, including West Street and Forest Drive. They will be stepping up seat belt enforcement as well as conducting sobriety checkpoints, as seat belt violations and driving while impaired are leading factors in traffic fatalities. There were 2,275 traffic deaths between 2005 and 2009, over half of which were caused by speeding, lack of seat belt use, or impairment, according to the State Highway Administration (SHA).
Rockville City Police, as well as other law enforcement agencies, will be joining the APD in stepping up enforcement, especially at night. There will be zero tolerance for driving impaired and seat belt violations.
Maryland law enforcement is on the right track, but unless motorists make a conscious decision to wear their seat belt, pay attention to the road, and never drink and drive, reaching zero deaths will be a difficult task. If you have suffered the loss of a loved one as the result of a fatal Maryland traffic accident, you may seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” is an experienced wrongful death attorney in Maryland and can help you understand your legal rights. Call Mr. Heisler for a consultation today at (877) 228-4878.
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