Kentucky Teens Encouraged To Buckle Up and Stay Focused Behind the Wheel

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To promote highway safety, Team Kentucky joins the national effort to encourage parents to talk to their young drivers about safe behaviors and risks on the road during National Teen Driver Safety Week, Oct. 19-25.

 

The campaign, spearheaded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is supported by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) to promote safer roadways across the commonwealth.

 

According to KYTC’s Office of Highway Safety, over the past three years in Kentucky, there were more than 48,000 crashes involving a teenage driver, resulting in more than 13,000 injuries and 210 deaths. NHTSA reports that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. Per mile driven, teens are involved in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers.

 

To further encourage safety among teen drivers, Kentucky has participated in multiple initiatives including hosting the Safe Teen Driving Challenge to reward safe behaviors, promoting the Ford Driving Skills for Life to offer hands-on drills, and co-developing the free Kentucky Checkpoints™ program to educate parents and teens on Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) requirements and teen driving risks.

 

“While nothing beats the experience that comes with driving, we are making sure we’re doing our part by offering teens access to resources and ensuring our roads and bridges are safe for all drivers,” KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said. “Caregivers can help by setting clear rules and modeling safe driving habits to help reduce the risks teen drivers face on the road.”

 

 

NHTSA outlines six basic rules for the road:

  1. Avoid Distracted Driving: Driver distraction is the leading factor in most crashes. Avoid talking or texting on cellphones, talking to passengers, adjusting audio and climate controls, eating or drinking while driving, or wearing headphones that block out sounds like sirens and horns.

 

  1. Wear Seat Belts: Wearing a seat belt is the best protection against injury and death, yet teens are less likely to be buckled up than members of any other age group. Properly fastened seat belts contact the strongest parts of the body and spread the force of a crash over a wide area of the body.
  2. Minimize Passengers: NHTSA research shows that the risk of a fatal crash goes up dramatically in direct relation to the number of passengers in a car. The likelihood of teen drivers engaging in risky behavior triples when traveling with multiple passengers.

 

  1. Obey Speed Limits: Limits are put in place to protect all road users. Driving over the speed limit greatly reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around another vehicle, a hazardous object or an unexpected curve. According to NHTSA, young males are most likely to be involved in speed-related fatal crashes.

 

  1. Drive Sober: While teens cannot legally buy, possess or consume alcohol, they are still at risk. Impairment begins with one drink and slows reflexes, weakens coordination, blurs eyesight, and gives a false sense of being in control. Marijuana and other drugs also affect a driver’s ability to safely react to their surroundings.

 

  1. Don’t Drive Drowsy: Between school and extracurricular activities, teens are busier than ever and tend to compromise something very important – sleep. According to NHTSA’s National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Study, drowsy drivers are twice as likely to make performance errors in a crash as compared to drivers who are not fatigued.

Additional information about the Kentucky Safety Prevention Alignment Network’s (KSPAN) Kentucky Checkpoints™ program – available in every county – can be found by visiting the KSPAN website or by contacting KSPAN Program Coordinator Steve Sparrow at [email protected]

 

Additional information on Graduated Driver Licensing requirements can be found on Kentucky’s graduated driver licensing (GDL) law website.

For more information and statistics on teen driving, visit NHTSA’s website www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/teen-driving.

Kentucky Joins ‘Operation Crash Reduction’ to Prevent Tragedies on Roadways

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To encourage seat belt use, save lives and prevent serious injuries from traffic crashes, Team Kentucky will join with law enforcement from across the Commonwealth and several northeastern states Oct. 10-13 to conduct a high-visibility enforcement campaign, Operation Crash Reduction.

“Buckling your seat belt only takes a few seconds, but those seconds can make all the difference in protecting yourself, your loved ones, and everyone on the road,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “It’s a simple step that can save your life or prevent serious injury every time you get in a car.”

The seat belt enforcement campaign is focused on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Region 3, which includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia – a region that sees some of the nation’s highest numbers of traffic deaths.

The Transportation Cabinet’s Kentucky Office of Highway Safety (KOHS), state and local law enforcement, and NHTSA are teaming up to support Operation Crash Reduction again this October.

“Too many lives are lost each year on our roadways because of preventable crashes,” Major Eric Walker said. “By joining Operation Crash Reduction, the Kentucky State Police strengthens our commitment to saving lives through education and enforcement. Even the smallest decisions, like buckling up or slowing down, can make the biggest difference.”

Since 2011, October has been the month with the highest number of fatal crashes in the United States. And, more roadway deaths have occurred on Columbus Day weekend than during the holiday periods of Thanksgiving or Memorial Day. In Kentucky, a total of 1,361 fatal crashes have occurred in the month of October since 2011. Last year, there were 365 injuries and 10 deaths on Kentucky roadways during the Oct. 10-15 holiday weekend.

In Region 3 states, approximately half of vehicle occupants killed in these crashes were unrestrained.

According to NHTSA, when worn correctly, seat belts reduce the risk of fatalities by 45% for front-seat vehicle occupants and by 60% for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants.

“In the event of a crash, your seat belt offers the best protection against serious injuries or fatalities,” said Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. “We want to remind everyone to buckle up and keep their phones down – simple steps that can save lives.”

For more information on seat belts, visit nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts

EDITORS NOTE: Click here for Operation Crash Reduction image.

 

Kentuckians Reminded to Share the Road During National Pedestrian Safety Month

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October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and Kentuckians are reminded to do their part in protecting all who use our roadways. As daylight hours shorten in the coming weeks, drivers and pedestrians are encouraged to follow safe practices to make roadways safer for everyone.

“Whether you’re traveling by car, bike, or on foot, we’re reminding everyone to watch out for one another,” said Gov. Beshear. “When we stay alert, slow down, and look out for our neighbors on the road, we can help ensure everyone gets home safely.”

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 2, meaning darkness will occur earlier in the day. Everyone on the road should be cautious because lower light conditions makes seeing pedestrians and cyclists harder.

Last year in Kentucky, 73% of the 98 pedestrian deaths occurred after dark. So far this year, there have been 59 pedestrian deaths, 42 of which occurred after dark.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to promote safe driving and walking tips throughout October.

“Every driver, cyclist, and walker must be vigilant to do their part to keep our roads safe,” said Secretary Jim Gray. “Watching for walkers and staying visible are practical steps to stay safe especially at night.”

Team Kentucky maintains its ongoing commitment to making Kentucky’s roadways safer and more accessible for all users. KYTC continues to promote Complete Streets to transportation agencies to design infrastructure that accommodates all users. Its design can vary according to land use, corridor characteristics and types of travelers who are expected to use it. Implementation may include a dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists, such as bike lanes (or wide, paved shoulders), sidewalks, crosswalks, median islands, accessible pedestrian signals, roadway reconfigurations and roundabouts.

The following practices are encouraged to improve safety for all road users:

Motorists:

  1. Put the phone down and pay attention. Driving while distracted increases risk for all road users.
  2. Yield the right of way to pedestrians. Be especially careful at intersections when turning onto another street.
  3. Keep your windshield, windows and mirrors clean so you can scan the road ahead and establish a “visual lead.”
  4. Obey the speed limit. Driving at the posted limit allows you to see, identify and react in time to brake for pedestrians.
  5. Slow down and turn on your headlights during evening hours when you need more time to see a pedestrian in your path.
  6. Be aware in neighborhoods and school zones. Children are often the smallest pedestrians, making them harder to see. Additionally, younger children may dart into intersections without understanding the dangers.
  7. Drive sober. As with pedestrians, alcohol and drugs affect judgment, balance and reaction time. Always make a plan for a safe ride home.
  8. Buckle up. Wearing a seat belt gives you the best protection against injury and death.

 

Pedestrians:

  1. Use crosswalks when available. Avoid jaywalking and crossing between parked vehicles.
  2. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If you must walk on the street, walk facing traffic.
  3. Don’t depend on the traffic signal to protect you. Motorists may be distracted, especially when adjusting to the nighttime travel environment.
  4. Increase visibility, especially at night. Carry a flashlight, wear reflective clothing or attach reflective materials – such as fluorescent tape – to clothing, backpacks, purses and briefcases. These materials reflect light from headlights back to drivers, making it easier to see you.
  5. Just because you can see a motorist does not mean the motorist can see you. If you cannot make eye contact or do not see the driver slow down for you, wait until the vehicle passes, even if you have the right of way.
  6. Put the phone down and pay attention. Distraction changes the way you walk, react and behave, including safety-related behaviors.
  7. Alcohol and drugs affect judgment, balance and reaction time, so always make a plan for a safe walk home.

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Editors: Visit walksafeky.com for campaign logos and additional information.

Team Kentucky Reminds Drivers Child Safety Seats Save Lives

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Team Kentucky Reminds Drivers Child Safety Seats Save Lives

Sept. 21-27 is National Child Passenger Safety Week, free checkup events hosted regionally

 

FRANKFORT, Ky.  (Sept. 17, 2025) – During National Child Passenger Safety Week, Team Kentucky is reminding parents and caregivers to always buckle children in the right safety seat for their age and size. This annual campaign is dedicated to keeping Kentucky’s highways safer by promoting proven practices that protect our youngest and most vulnerable passengers.

“No family should have to face the tragedy or regret of knowing a crash or serious injury could have been prevented with the right seat,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Making sure they’re buckled in and in the correct car seat is one of the simplest, most powerful steps we can take to protect our kids every trip.”

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1-13, and research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that 46% of car seats are misused. Common issues include children being in the wrong type of car seat for their age and size, as well as car seats being installed improperly — both of which leave children vulnerable to injury in a crash.

“Putting your child in a car seat is the first step, but it only works if the seat is installed the right way,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Taking a few extra minutes to double-check or getting a professional to inspect the seat can make all the difference and give families the peace of mind knowing their children are as safe as possible on the road.”

Talk to an Expert
There are certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians who help educate parents and caregivers about the right seats for their kids and help them learn how to install the seats correctly. To find a technician in Kentucky, visit NHTSA’s car seat inspection location link, call Norton Healthcare at 502-629-7337 or email [email protected] with your city and/or county.

 

Go to a Free Checkup Event
Free checkup events occur at various locations throughout the year. There are a few events occurring this week in Kentucky:

 

Gray, KY
RECC Knox County
6219 US-25E
Gray, KY 40734
September 22, 2025
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST

Lexington, KY
The Marksbury Family Library
2197 Versailles Rd
Lexington, KY 40504
September 27, 2025
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST

London, KY
Forcht Bank
100 CVB Drive
London, KY 40741
September 24, 2025
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST

Louisville, KY
Norton Children’s Medical Center
4910 Chamberlain Lane
Louisville, KY 40241
September 16, 2025
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST

Louisville, KY
Foxing Bookstore
1314 Bluegrass Ave
Louisville, KY 40215
September 18, 2025
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST

McKee, KY
Jackson County Public Library
338 Main Street
McKee, KY 40447
September 26, 2025
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST

Pikeville, KY
Walmart
254 Cassady Blvd
Pikeville, KY 41501
September 25, 2025
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST

Richmond, KY
KSP Post 7
699 Eastern Bypass
Richmond, KY 40475
September 23, 2025
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST

 

Find Out More NHTSA encourages everyone who drives child passengers to check out its free, online resources at www.nhtsa.gov/TheRightSeat.

  • Car Seat Types: Determine whether your child fits best in a rear-facing car seat, forward-facing car seat, booster seat or seat belt.
  • Car Seat Recommendations: Review NHTSA’s recommendations for the best car seat for your child’s age and size.
  • Find and Compare: Find and compare car seats with NHTSA’s handy car seat finder, which also searches specific brands.
  • Download NHTSA’s SaferCar app and save your vehicle and car seat info in your “virtual garage.” If any of your saved equipment is included in a safety recall, the app will send you a notification.

 

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Law Enforcement and Child Passenger Safety Experts Recognized for Excellence in Seat Belt and Child Restraint Enforcement

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Today, state officials recognized nearly 100 state and local law enforcement officers, along with child passenger safety personnel, for their outstanding efforts to save the lives of drivers and passengers on Kentucky highways.

The annual Governor’s Occupant Protection Enforcement Awards, held in Lexington, recognized the dedication of individuals from across Kentucky who are committed to protecting travelers through seat belt and child seat enforcement efforts.

“There is nothing more important than protecting the lives of our people and I’m proud to recognize leaders who show up every day dedicated to this important work,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Through their efforts, more Kentuckians are safe on the road and able to return home to their family.”

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) presented the awards to those with the most occupant protection citations in each agency and in each division from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. Award recipients received a plaque, while the top division winners were presented with the Highway Safety All-Star Award – a commemorative baseball bat from Louisville Slugger. There are six divisions, broken down by number of officers within the agency, and a division for Kentucky State Police:

  • Division I         1-10 officers
  • Division II        11-25 officers
  • Division III       26-50 officers
  • Division IV       51-100 officers
  • Division V        100+ officers
  • Division VI Kentucky State Police

In addition to honoring law enforcement, KOHS also presented awards for Technician, Instructor and CPS Team of the Year.

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray addressed the attendees and praised their efforts to save lives in their communities.

“The work you do for the state is critical to protecting Kentuckians, especially our most vulnerable citizens who depend on an adult to keep them safe with every ride,” said Gray. “We appreciate your dedication, professionalism and heart to save lives.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belts, when worn correctly, are proven to reduce the risk of fatal injuries to front-seat occupants by 45% and by 60% in pickup trucks, SUVs and minivans. Also, according to NHTSA, properly installed child restraints reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 71% for infants and by 54% for toddlers in passenger cars. In light trucks, SUVs and minivans, properly deployed child restraints reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 58% for infants and 59% for toddlers.

In Kentucky, 86.9% of drivers and passengers buckle up. Annually, more than half of all highway fatalities involving a vehicle reported unbelted occupants.

 

Child Passenger Safety Awards

Technician of the Year Awards
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Tasha Higgins The Nest
Instructor of the Year
Kinzie Evrard Norton Children’s Hospital
Team of the Year
Danville Fire Department

 

Law Enforcement Safety Awards

Division 1  
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Chief Aaron Ashby Adairville Police Department
Patrol Officer Austin Begley Bellevue Police Department
Patrol Officer Jason Blevins Hartford Police Department
Officer Charles Boeschenstein Southgate Police Department
Chief Billy Burton Hawesville Police Department
Deputy Sheriff Brian Cloyd Boyle County Sheriff’s Office
Patrolman Brian J. Coleman Calvert City Police Department
Lieutenant James Combs Stanton Police Department
Officer Cole Cordle City of Grayson Police
Sergeant Michael Garner Whitesburg Police Department
Sergeant John Grevious Wilmore Police Department
Officer Kenneth Helton Harlan Police Department
Sergeant Johnny Holbert Mount Sterling Police Department
Chief Brandon Hollingsworth Pineville City Police Department
Deputy Evan Knipp Carter County Sheriff Office
Patrolman Jeramie Long Jackson Police Department
Deputy Joseph Nelson Taylor County Sheriff’s Department
Deputy Jarred Perkins Nelson County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Jacob Purvis Owingsville Police Department
Chief James Richardson Hodgenville Police Department
Deputy Cory Skaggs LaRue County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Jared Smith Manchester Police Department
Chief Ben Smith Millersburg Police Department
Detective David Thompson Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
K-9 Deputy Kenneth Vincent Trigg County Sheriff’s Office

 

Division 2      
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Sergeant Jason Arms Prestonsburg Police Department
Deputy Josh Bailey Clark County Sheriff Department
Officer Matthew Bullard Villa Hills Police Department
Patrolman Zak Cline Morehead Police Department
Lieutenant Barry Cowan Middlesboro Police Department
Officer Tyler Creech Edgewood Police Department
Officer Michael Dennis Hillview Police Department
Deputy Nick Dues Calloway County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Officer Robert Fitzpatrick Oak Grove Police Department
Deputy Collin Garner Ballard Sheriff Office
Patrolman Dustin Hale Mount Vernon Police Department
Detective Dalton Hayes Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Galen Hinshaw Heritage Creek Police Department
Deputy Sheriff Peyton Jackson Graves County Sheriff’s Office
Police Officer William Zack Johnson Campbellsville Police Department
Deputy Jacob Johnson Mason County Sheriff’s Office
Sergeant Christopher Kohut Flatwoods Police Department
Sergeant Matt Lloyd Cold Spring Police Department
Patrolman Geoff  Lucas Fort Thomas Police Department
Deputy Ron Luster Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Michael Lyon Taylor Mill Police Department
Officer Joe Massey Simpsonville Police Department
Deputy/K9 Allen May Floyd County Sheriff Office
Sergeant Tim McCoy Central City Police Department
Deputy Michael Meece Oldham County Sheriff’s Office
Patrolman Jonathan Milburn Stanford Police Department
Sergeant Daniel  Miller Hazard Police Department
Deputy Chad Moody Simpson County Sheriff Office
Sergeant Nathan Nogueras Alexandria Police Department
Patrolman Justin Prater Pikeville Police Department
Officer Nicholas Rathbone Cynthiana Police Department
Patrolman Erin Rice Harrodsburg Police Department
Officer Oscar Sanchez Elsmere Police Department
Officer Michael Seidenfaden Lawrenceburg Police Department
Officer Jacob Smith Dayton Police Department
Commander Steve R Taylor Lancaster Police Department
Deputy Josh Travis Lyon County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Dallas Wills Franklin County Sheriff’s Office

 

 

 

Division 3      
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Patrolman Travis Ashcraft Winchester Police Department
Sergeant Jeffrey Childress Glasgow Police Department
Patrol Officer Samuel “Taylor” Davidson Paris Police Department
Patrolman Juan Davis Maysville Police Department
Deputy Sheriff Devon Evans Marshall County Sheriff Office
Sergeant Trevor Ford Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Sheriff Lukas Gabbard Madison County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Nicholas Kerney Radcliff Police Department
Officer Cody King Somerset Police Deptartment
Deputy Michael Martinez Christian County Sheriffs Office
Police Officer Lane Owen Berea Police Department
Officer Storm Painter Campbell County Police Department
Officer Levi Preston Bardstown Police Department
Sergeant Aaron Rainwater Danville Police Department
Deputy Daniel Reed Laurel County Sheriff’s Office
Patrolman Patrick Reynolds Newport Police Department
Officer Jose Roman Jr. Mayfield Police Department
Patrol Officer Matt Semler Erlanger Police Department
Officer Seth Stewart Franklin Police Department
Officer David Watts Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport Police
Sergeant Mark Wheeler Boyd County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Officer David Williams Oldham County Police Department
Sergeant Danny Williams Murray Police Department
Deputy Sheriff Quintin Wright Logan County Sheriff’s Office
Lieutenant Jeremy Younger Shelbyville Police Department

 

Division 4    
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Officer Joshua Almasi University of Kentucky Police Department
Officer James Frint Ashland Police Department
Officer Aaron Gutermuth Jeffersontown Police Department
Captain Kenneth Keith Frankfort Police Department
Deputy Wayne Mayfield Warren County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Thomas Minter Elizabethtown Police Department
Patrol Officer Daniel Pennaman Henderson Police Department
Officer Dustin Scott Madisonville Police Department
Police Officer Jindriska Skees Richmond Police Department
Patrol Officer Michael Stanaland City of Florence Police Department
Officer Keith Thuline Paducah Police Department

 

Division 5    
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Patrolman Michael Davis Owensboro Police Department
Master Police Officer John Deeb Bowling Green Police Department
Sergeant Brandon Muravchick Lexington Police Department
Deputy Daniel Tracy Boone County Sheriff’s Office

 

 

Division 6    
Name of Nominee Agency Name
Trooper R Toney Allen KSP Post 7
Trooper Daniel Armstrong KSP Post 8
Sergeant Joseph R. Bartolotti KSP Post 2
Trooper Curtis Button KSP Post 5
Trooper Robert Dials KSP CVE East
Trooper Caleb Elmore KSP Post 14
Master Trooper Eric Hines KSP Post 4
Trooper Chris Johnson KSP Post 6
Trooper Joshua Jones KSP Post 10
Officer First Class Logan Lynch KSP CVE Central
Senior Trooper Jay Newcom KSP Post 16
Trooper First Class Derral Redwine KSP Post 1
Master Trooper Graham Rutherford KSP Post 3
Trooper Josh Smith KSP Post 15
Senior Trooper Justin Vanhook KSP Post 11
Trooper Justin Watts KSP Post 12
Trooper Branden Watts KSP Post 13
Trooper First Class Joseph Weddington KSP Post 9

 

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Ed. note: To view photos from the award ceremony, click here.

Governor’s Awards to Honor Law Enforcement and Child Passenger Safety Personnel for Excellence in Occupant Protection Enforcement

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Despite the implementation of laws and a wealth of data showing that seat belts and child restraints save lives, each year hundreds of unrestrained motorists lose their lives on Kentucky roadways. Law enforcement officers and child passenger safety personnel throughout the state are working to reduce these fatalities through extraordinary efforts to increase seat belt and child restraint usage.

 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Highway Safety will honor these recipients at 11:30 a.m. ET on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at the Governor’s Occupant Protection Enforcement Awards ceremony at The Hyatt Regency, Lexington KY.

 

WHO: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray

Kentucky Office of Highway Safety Assistant Director Ryan Fisher
Assistant Director of KY Association of Basketball Coaches Scott Chalk

Victim Advocate Dixie Wise

 
WHAT: Governor’s Occupant Protection Enforcement Awards Ceremony

 
WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 20

11:30 a.m. ET – Awards presented

 
WHERE: The Hyatt Regency

401 West High Street, Lexington, KY 40507

Kentucky Participates in Nationwide Campaign To Curb Impaired Driving During Labor Day Weekend

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As Labor Day approaches, Kentuckians are reminded to celebrate the end of summer safely by planning for a sober, designated driver if festivities include alcohol.

“Our top priority is keeping Kentuckians safe,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “If you are under the influence and choose to get behind the wheel, you put everyone on the road in danger, including yourself. Let’s work together to eliminate preventable crashes by committing to celebrate responsibly.”

Although impaired driving enforcement is a year-round effort, crashes tend to increase over holiday weekends. That’s why the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and law enforcement agencies across the country in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which runs from Aug. 13 through Sept. 1, 2025.

“It is never acceptable to drive impaired,” said Kentucky Transport Cabinet (KYTC) Secretary Jim Gray. “Alcohol, drugs and even prescription medications can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely. You may feel ‘OK,’ but impairment slows your judgment, coordination and reaction time.”

According to the KOHS, last year in Kentucky, there were 4,260 total crashes involving an impaired driver, resulting in 2,062 injuries and 185 deaths. Last year, 45 alcohol related crashes involving only a motorcycle were reported, resulting in 41 injuries and 6 deaths.

During the 2024 Labor Day holiday weekend, there were 76 crashes involving an impaired driver, resulting in 44 injuries and one death.

The following tips are recommended to stay safe:

  • Before the festivities begin, plan a way to get home safely at the end of the night;
  • If you’re impaired, use a ride-booking company or taxi, call a sober friend or family member or use public transportation to get home safely;
  • If you see an impaired driver, safely pull over and contact law enforcement. You may dial the Kentucky State Police toll-free line directly at 1-800-222-5555 or call 911. Provide a vehicle description, license number, location and, if possible, direction of travel;
  • If you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely;
  • Wear a seat belt! It is not only the law, but it is also the best defense against an impaired driver. Buckling up helps prevent injury and death if you are involved in a crash.

For more information on drunken driving visit kydrivesober.com

 

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Kentucky Taps the Brakes on Speeding This Summer

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As travel increases this summer, Kentuckians are encouraged to slow down, obey posted speed limits and help keep everyone on the road safe.

Speed limits are not merely suggestions; they are in place to protect everyone on the road. Driving over the speed limit greatly reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, such as stopped traffic, road debris or encountering vulnerable road users such as highway workers, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.

Speeding and aggressive driving are major contributors to roadway fatalities. In fact, approximately one-third of all traffic fatalities in Kentucky involve a speeding or aggressive driver. In response, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is partnering with law enforcement agencies statewide to implement the “Not So Fast, Kentucky” speed awareness campaign through July 31.

“We want families to have a great time exploring all the beautiful things Kentucky has to offer this summer,” said Gov. Andy Beshear “But to keep everyone safe on the road, I’m asking all Kentuckians to slow down, stay focused and be patient with each other on the road. Together, we can prevent crashes and make sure everyone gets home safely.”

Funds for the campaign are provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and distributed by KOHS to law enforcement agencies that applied and were approved for full-year grants.

“With the summer construction season underway, we’re asking drivers to be especially vigilant in work zones,” added Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Your choices behind the wheel affect more than just you – they impact your family, friends and everyone sharing the road. Let’s work together to make Kentucky’s roads safer this summer.”

As construction season ramps up, drivers need to stay alert and use extra caution in work zones. A work zone is any part of the highway where government crews, contractors or utility companies are doing construction, repairs, resurfacing, inspections or maintenance. To keep everyone safe, slow down, watch for signs and stay alert.

Legislation passed last year – Senate Bill 107 – increased fines for speeding and aggressive driving in work zones. In addition to fines of $500 or more, drivers may even have their license revoked, depending on the violation. These tougher consequences are in place for a reason. Work zones are active job sites where workers are often feet from traffic. Reduced speeds and attentive driving help prevent crashes and protect everyone on the road.

The KOHS provides the following tips for dealing with speeding and/or aggressive drivers:

  • Wear your seat belt! It is your best defense against injury and death.
  • Do not challenge the driver by speeding up or attempting to hold your lane.
  • Give them plenty of space, as they may lose control of their vehicle more easily.
  • Avoid eye contact and ignore gestures.
  • If you can safely report an aggressive driver to law enforcement, provide a vehicle description, license number, location and, if possible, direction of travel.
  • If an aggressive driver is following you, drive to a safe place such as the nearest police or fire station, gas station or other areas where there are people. Use your horn to get someone’s attention. Do not get out of your car and do not drive home.

 

For more information, visit notsofastky.com.

Person holding sparkler during fireworks on the fourth of july

Celebrate This Fourth of July Weekend Responsibly

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Team Kentucky is reminding all Kentuckians that if their Independence Day celebration includes alcohol, they should celebrate responsibly.

Impaired driving crashes typically increase over holidays, so Team Kentucky is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to remind drivers that “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.” Even one drink can affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Planning for a sober, designated driver before the festivities begin can help prevent serious injuries and loss of life on Kentucky’s roadways.

“As we celebrate our nation’s independence, I encourage every Kentuckian to make smart choices and put safety first,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Driving under the influence puts lives at risk — yours and others’. Plan ahead, use a designated driver or call a ride service. Above all, never get behind the wheel impaired. Together, we can make this a safe and joyful holiday weekend for everyone across the Commonwealth.”

According to the Kentucky State Police database, last year in Kentucky, there were 93 crashes involving a drunken and/or drugged driver over the Fourth of July holiday period, resulting in 41 injuries and eight deaths.

As part of the nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative, KOHS is coordinating with local and state law enforcement to increase high-visibility patrols and sobriety checkpoints throughout the holiday period.

“If you use drugs or alcohol and decide to drive, you’re putting yourself and everyone else on the road in danger,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. “These substances make it harder to think clearly, react quickly and stay in control. You might feel okay to drive, but you’re not. It’s just not worth the risk.”

 

To prevent tragedies, follow these recommendations:

  • Before the festivities begin, plan to get home safely at the end of the night.
  • If you’re impaired, use a ride-booking company, taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely.
  • If you see an impaired driver, safely pull over and contact law enforcement. You may dial the Kentucky State Police’s toll-free line at 800-222-5555 or call 911.
  • If you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.
  • Wear a seat belt! It is not only the law; it is also the best defense against an impaired driver. Buckling up helps prevent injury and death if you are involved in a crash.

For more information visit kyhighwaysafety.com.

 

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Ed. note: Click here for the Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving logo.

Ed. note: Click here for Fourth of July Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving image.

Kentuckians Urged to Buckle Up Ahead of Memorial Day Travel

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Kentuckians are reminded to buckle up and properly secure children in car or booster seats to keep themselves safe throughout the year and during the “Click It or Ticket” Campaign, which runs May 12 to June 1 and includes the Memorial Day holiday.

“It only takes two seconds to fasten your seat belt – and those two seconds could save your life,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “We want everyone to buckle up, every trip. Let’s look out for one another and make sure we all get to where we’re going and come back home, safely.”

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is joining law enforcement around the commonwealth and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the annual federally funded high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort.

According to the KOHS, of the 707 roadway deaths last year in Kentucky, 471 were killed in motor vehicle crashes, and 47% of them (220) were either not wearing a seat belt or were not properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat. Nine of the 471 deaths were children ages 9 and younger. One of the nine was improperly restrained.

“Wearing a seat belt is the simplest, most effective way to protect yourself and the people you care about,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Buckling up should be second nature – every time, every ride. It’s a small action that makes a big difference.”

According to NHTSA, despite typically low traffic volumes at night, fatal crashes nationwide are three times higher during nighttime hours compared to daytime. Of the 471 occupants killed in motor vehicle crashes, at least 185 occurred at night. Of those, more than 90 were unrestrained.

More than 110 law enforcement agencies throughout Kentucky have participated in the KOHS Click It or Ticket “Local Heroes” initiative to reinforce this message. Localized public service announcements (PSAs) feature officers, deputies and Troopers in counties with low seat belt usage rates and/or a high number of unrestrained motorist-involved crashes. The PSAs will air during the Click It or Ticket campaign beginning Memorial Day weekend. In areas without a county-specific PSA, statewide versions will air featuring various law enforcement agencies throughout the state.

“Every decision behind the wheel matters,” said Sec. Gray. “Our goal is to prevent tragedy before it happens – and sometimes that means taking enforcement action to protect lives.”

According to NHTSA, when worn correctly, seat belts reduce the risk of death by 45% for front-seat vehicle occupants and by 60% for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants. Properly fastened seat belts contact the body’s strongest parts, such as the chest, hips and shoulders. A seat belt spreads the force of a crash over a wide area of the body, putting less stress on any one part, and allows the body to slow down with the crash, extending the time when the occupant feels the crash forces.

Visit kyhighwaysafety.com for more information.

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Note to Editors: Click here for Click It or Ticket “Local Heroes” videos and Click It or Ticket logo.