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.

 

Gov. Beshear Announces Decline in Highway Fatalities in 2024

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Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that highway fatalities in Kentucky decreased in 2024 to 707 deaths – down 107 compared with 2023. This marks the lowest number of highway fatalities in the last 10 years.

The Governor said the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) continues education, engineering and enforcement campaigns aimed at enhancing highway safety.

“These numbers mean fewer families have had to deal with such a painful loss, and it’s welcome news,” said Gov. Beshear. “By working together, we can ensure everyone traveling on Kentucky’s roadways makes it home safely. Let’s keep doing all we can to prevent tragedies – like buckling up, driving distraction-free and slowing down.”

 

Team Kentucky encourages all travelers – including motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians – to stay alert and make safe choices on Kentucky roadways. Whether it’s driving sober, crossing at designated crosswalks or wearing reflective gear while biking or walking, small actions can save lives.

Since nearly half of all reported motor vehicle fatalities in Kentucky involve unbelted drivers or passengers, Kentuckians are urged to buckle up – every trip, every time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you cut your risk of a fatal injury in a crash nearly in half by buckling up.

 

“We’re asking motorists and passengers to commit to safe driving behaviors when behind the wheel, such as buckling up, putting the phone down, obeying the speed limit and driving sober,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “This helps keep our roadways safe, not only for those in vehicles, but for all road users, such as pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.”

 

According to KYTC’s Office of Highway Safety and Kentucky State Police (KSP), of the 707 fatalities, 47% of vehicle occupants were not wearing a seat belt and 19% involved alcohol. Approximately 33% involved speeding or aggressive drivers, and 22% involved driver distraction. Pedestrians and bicyclists accounted for 110 deaths and motorcyclists accounted for 96.

 

“One of the hardest tasks for law enforcement is notifying a family that their loved one has been in a fatal crash. So, if we can potentially save a life by enforcing traffic laws, we’ll do it,” said KSP Major Eric Walker. “At the end of the day, it’s not about writing tickets; it’s about ensuring everyone makes it home safely.”

 

According to NHTSA, wearing a seat belt gives motorists the best chance of preventing injury or death if involved in a crash. Properly fastened seat belts contact the strongest parts of the body, 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 crash forces are felt by the occupant.

 

So far in 2025, preliminary numbers indicate 182 roadway deaths, down 17.27% compared with the same time last year.

In addition to encouraging safe driving behaviors, KYTC is committed to enhancing safety for all users through infrastructure projects and programs aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on our highways, roads and streets.

A wrong-way driving prevention project launched last year will bring technology to interstates in central Kentucky to detect and deter wrong-way driving in urban areas where it’s more likely to occur.

Additionally, KYTC has introduced safer road solutions by implementing roundabouts, Restricted Crossing U-Turns and other safety-focused designs in many areas across Kentucky to reduce the number of conflict points at intersections and reduce the risk of crashes.

 

Restricted Crossing U-Turns have transformed highway safety for areas such as the intersection of U.S. Highway 68 and Kentucky Highway 139 in Trigg County, where crashes declined by 64.5% over the last four years – a greater reduction than the nationwide 54% average for the design – and where fatalities decreased to zero.

Among similar efforts across Kentucky this year, work is underway on a $12.75 million Restricted Crossing U-Turns project along the high-traffic Richmond Road and Athens Boonesboro Road corridor in Fayette County that’s expected to reduce the number of crashes there and improve traffic flow.

To further enhance road safety, education efforts such as the Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge aims to reduce teen driving crashes by promoting safer driving habits. Using an app that tracks behaviors such as speed, braking and phone distraction, participants receive feedback after each trip to help them improve their skills. Ultimately, the challenge helps ensure safer roads by equipping teens with the tools they need to become more cautious and aware drivers.

 

In January, the Governor announced the preliminary numbers which showed Kentucky was making major progress in reducing roadway fatalities.

 

Today’s news builds on the work Team Kentucky is doing to increase public safety and protect Kentuckians.

 

Last week, the Governor announced that overdose deaths in the commonwealth decreased for the third year in a row, with a 30.2% decrease in 2024 compared with the previous year.

 

The Governor also announced that Kentucky secured another low recidivism rate. Nearly 70% of people released from state custody over the past two years have not been re-incarcerated.

The 2023 Crime in Kentucky report, released in July of last year, indicates crime rates have remained stable with a decline in offenses for homicide, burglary, robbery, sex offenses, kidnapping and gambling. For the last three consecutive years, homicide rates have been declining.

Historical Kentucky Highway Fatality Statistics:
Fatality stats from 2000-2024

Kentucky Officials Urges Drivers: Look Twice, Share the Road

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2025) – Team Kentucky reminds everyone that as the weather warms up, more people will be out on the roads. Whether you ride, pedal, or drive — look twice and share the road.

 

“Safety is a mutual responsibility on our roadways,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Let’s all do our part in making sure everyone makes it to their destination safely. Please, slow down and look twice for folks on bikes and motorcycles.”

 

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind all road users to work together to help prevent crashes, injuries and deaths on Kentucky roadways.

 

A motorcycle or bicycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and responsibilities of any motor vehicle; however, as one of the smallest vehicles on the road, a motorcycle or bicycle may be in a vehicle’s blind spots.

 

“The simple act of looking twice can be the difference between life and death for a motorcyclist or bicyclist,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. “Be aware of your surroundings and others around you when changing lanes, turning, or traveling down the road.”

 

In 2024 there were 1,665 crashes involving motorcycles in Kentucky, resulting in 1,235 injuries and 106 deaths (106 motorcyclists). Of those crashes, 904 involved a motorcycle and at least one other vehicle.

 

Team Kentucky is committed to continuing our efforts to improve accessibility and safety for everyone,” said Secretary Gray. “Whether you ride, pedal, or drive — we all have a role to play in making our roadways safer. A moment of attention can save a life.”

 

The KOHS offers the following tips for drivers:

 

  • Be aware: Put your phone down and eliminate all distractions.
  • Check surroundings: Regularly check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or entering intersections.
  • Signal intentions: Use turn signals to communicate your actions.
  • Respect all road users: Maintain a safe following distance, give adequate space when passing and do not obstruct bike lanes.
  • Drive responsibly: Adhere to traffic laws. Obey speed limits to better identify and react to potential hazards, drive sober and always wear a seat belt.

 

The KOHS offers the following tips for motorcyclists:

  • Stay safe and visible: Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet and brightly colored protective gear with reflective elements. Position yourself in the lane where you are most visible to other drivers.
  • Be aware: Maintain focus on the road and traffic at all times.
  • Signal intentions: Use turn signals and hand signals for every maneuver.
  • Ride responsibly: Adhere to traffic laws. Obey speed limits to better identify and react to potential hazards, and always ride sober.
  • Take a rider training course: Find information on classes at ride.ky.gov.

 

The KOHS offers the following tips for bicyclists:

 

  • Stay safe and visible: Always wear a properly fitted helmet that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission standards and brightly colored protective gear with reflective elements.
  • Be aware: Maintain focus on the road and traffic at all times. Scan ahead for possible obstacles in your path, such as parked cars or cars pulling out or into parking spaces or driveways.
  • Signal intentions: Use hand signals when changing lanes or turning.
  • Ride responsibly: Adhere to traffic laws. Ride in the same direction as traffic and always ride sober.
  • Check equipment. Make sure your brakes are working and tires are properly inflated before riding.

 

For more information visit https://bikesafeky.com/ and https://www.ridesafeky.com/.

Gov. Beshear Honors Teens in Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge

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Gov. Andy Beshear, state transportation officials and partners from AAA Blue Grass, AAA East Central and Cambridge Mobile Telematics came together at the Capitol today to honor the top four safest teens in the Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge and their commitment to staying safe on Kentucky roadways.

The four teens, Emily Emerson (1st place, $2,000), Julia Kettering (2nd Place, $1,500), Tasneem Mondal, (3rd place, $1,000) and Alejandro Ramirez-Villanueva (4th place, $500) won a combined cash prize totaling $5,000. The prize money was sponsored by AAA Blue Grass and AAA East Central.

“It’s an honor to recognize each of the participants and their commitment to keeping Kentucky roadways safer,” said Gov. Beshear. “Whether they signed up for the challenge to win or to learn, they still made a difference – and we’re proud of every single one of them.”

The challenge was announced in early January when teens ages 16 to 19 were invited to register online. The contest ran from January 25 through March 31, 2025. Once the challenge began, participants were monitored through an app on their smartphones to identify risky driving behaviors such as speeding, hard braking, harsh acceleration, sharp cornering and phone use.

“Staying safe on our highways is a responsibility everyone on the road shares at every point in our lives,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “It’s inspiring to see so many young drivers taking initiative to be safe on the road.”

More than 800 teens from across Kentucky stepped up to take the challenge. Participants represented communities large and small – from rural counties to urban high schools – reflecting a shared commitment to improving roadway safety.

“The Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge is a key step in building safer roads, and it’s inspiring to see so many teens involved,” said Bill Bell, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety. “Engaging teens early helps them develop lifelong safe driving habits.”

The Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce crashes and promote safe driving behaviors among young drivers for a lifetime. By encouraging teens to adopt safe habits behind the wheel, the program aims to save lives and make Kentucky’s roads safer for everyone.

 

Editor’s Note: Media from the award ceremony can be found here

Kentucky Officials Urge Motorists To Avoid Distracted Driving

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For National Distracted Driving Awareness Month this April, Team Kentucky and AAA East Central are partnering to drive home a life-saving message for all motorists: Buckle up, phone down.

 

Officials with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Office of Highway Safety, Kentucky State Police (KSP) and AAA East Central joined local leaders and a victims’ advocate today during an event at the Simpsonville Rest Area to share personal stories and emphasize the dangers of distracted driving.

 

“Driving distracted puts your life – and the lives of everyone around you – at risk. We want every Kentuckian and every visitor traveling through our commonwealth to make it home safely,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Let’s all do the right thing when we’re behind the wheel. Put the phone down and focus on the road. It’s a simple choice that saves lives.”

 

As part of this month’s awareness effort, KSP will participate in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s high-visibility enforcement campaign, “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” which runs next week, April 7-13. This nationwide initiative is designed to reduce distracted driving through increased enforcement and public awareness.

 

“One moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret. No text is worth losing a family member or harming another person,” said KSP Sgt. Matt Sudduth. “While troopers enforce laws to prevent distracted driving, it’s not about writing citations; it’s about ensuring everyone makes it home safely.”

 

Over the past decade, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads. According to KSP’s collision data, in 2024, 5,648 crashes, 27 of which were fatal, were related to distracted drivers, including those with cellphones.

“When we lose a life on a Kentucky roadway due to distracted driving, especially one that could have been prevented, it’s a tragic day for the commonwealth,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. “Distracted driving is avoidable, and we must do everything we can to keep people safer on our highways.”

 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, while anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel or mind off the task of driving is a hazard, texting and using a phone while driving is especially risky, because it combines all three types of distraction – visual, manual and cognitive.

 

“Distracted driving is a choice, and it’s one that can have deadly consequences. Every time you get behind the wheel, your full attention is required to keep yourself and others safe,” said Kentucky Office of Highway Safety Executive Director Bill Bell. “We are committed to spreading the message that no text or phone call is worth a life. Stay focused and stay safe.”

 

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Editor’s note:  The Buckle Up/Phone Down campaign, radio spots, ringtone and videos may be downloaded/viewed at bupdky.com

 

Press event photos and video can be viewed and downloaded here.