In 2010, traffic crashes claimed the lives of approximately 500 people in Maryland, deeply impacting the lives of their surviving family, friends, co-workers, and thousands of other lives in our communities. Law Enforcement in Queen Anne’s County as well as Law Enforcement agencies throughout the Eastern Shore are participating in a statewide effort during the month of August called Crush the Crash – Toward Zero Deaths, a concentrated effort to begin working our way toward Maryland’s ultimate goal of zero traffic fatalities. Crush the Crash Campaign is supported by Pepsi Bottling Ventures, Salisbury, Maryland supplying banners and other campaign materials for the entire Eastern Shore.
Why August? Statistically, August has proven to be the deadliest month in terms of traffic-related fatalities. It is a period of heavy summer travel and police are out in force, but this year the public can expect and even greater presence, especially at night.
Progress is being made to eliminate traffic fatalities, but it is still one of the greatest dangers we face each and every day. Many of the causes are known – of the 2,275 motor vehicle occupant deaths for the period 2005-2009, sixty-three percent involved speeding, impairment, or lack of belt use.
We must not stop now and we must continue to drive Maryland Toward Zero Deaths. Even one more death is too many.
Our message as law enforcement officers is simple – slow down, drive sober, and pay attention to the road and other drivers. Most importantly, always wear your seat belt and ensure that children are properly restrained in safety seats. Don’t be an Aggressive Driver and be a part of our campaign.
Pictured left to right: Centreville Chief Charles Rhodes, Shore Health System Officer K. Hill, State Police Tfc. Travis Nelson, Md. Transportation Authority Police Officer Hechmer, Queen Anne’s County Deputy W. Miller and County Commissioner Dunmyer
Pictured left to right: Pepsi Bottling Ventures: Mike Cooney – Regional Sales Manager, Mike Tull – Human Resources Manager, Debbie Taylor – Warehouse Manager, Mike Langley – Division Vice President/General Manager and Eric Gosnell – Safety Manager