Target Zero has recommendations to celebrate responsibly this holiday season
While celebrating the final weeks of the holiday season, Target Zero is asking drivers to celebrate responsibly and remember of all the families who are missing loved ones who died in traffic crashes.
Traffic data through October of 2022 shows that 639 people in Washington have died in traffic crashes this year. Traffic fatalities reached a 20-year high in 2021, and 2022 is on pace to have even more traffic-related deaths, according to Mark McKechnie of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. He said more than half of those deaths involve impaired drivers.
On Saturday, law enforcement agencies from Southwest Washington will gather in Battle Ground for the Night of 1000 Stars event. The Mobile Impaired Driving Unit will be on site for tours. Following the event, law enforcement officers will head out on patrol, in memory of the victims who have lost their lives due to crashes involving impaired drivers.
Participating agencies include: Battle Ground Police Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency, Vancouver Police Department, Ridgefield Police Department, and the Washington State Patrol.
Target Zero, a strategic highway safety plan for the state of Washington, has recommendations for those traveling on the roadways.
- Before celebrating, plan a safe and 100-percent sober ride home.
- Intervene, when safe to do so, to prevent someone from getting behind the wheel if the person has used alcohol or drugs.
- Offer to be a sober-designated driver.
- Hosts of a party should remind their guests to ensure a sober ride home or offer space for an impaired person to stay.
- If you see an impaired driver, call 911.
Always wear a seat belt.
The Night of 1000 Stars is not open to the public. The event recognizes law enforcement and remembers the lives of those lost in traffic crashes.
Also read:
- School bus involved in crash in Vancouver on Friday
A Pontiac G8 collided with an elementary school bus at NE 99th and NE 23rd Ave, but no children or drivers required hospitalization, according to officials. - Crown Point Country Museum Grand Opening set for Sat., March 21
Visitors to Corbett’s new Crown Point Country Museum can explore the region’s early settlements, Wasco Nation heritage, art by Charles W. Post, and unique geological collections. - Opinion: Two ways to keep right
Doug Dahl explains how Washington drivers must “keep right” differently depending on whether traffic flows in one direction or both, plus the exceptions that apply to two-way turn lanes. - Reps. Peter Abbarno and Ed Orcutt: Supplemental capital budget includes key investments for the 20th District
Projects in the 20th District will benefit from millions in state funds, with local schools, community centers, and infrastructure improvements highlighted by Reps. Abbarno and Orcutt. - Opinion: A troubling end to a disruptive session
Let’s Go Washington highlights multiple instances where legislative leaders dismissed historic public feedback, advanced controversial tax policies, and undermined constituent influence. - Single-vehicle crash investigated on 72nd Avenue
Deputies say a northbound pickup struck a guardrail and became stuck atop a Jersey barrier, blocking several blocks of NE 72nd Avenue while emergency crews extricated the driver. - Opinion: Washington state is blowing up its no-income-tax advantage
Lawmakers advanced SB 6346 with an emergency clause, aiming to end Washington’s no-income-tax reputation and prevent voters from seeking a referendum.
