As the holiday season approaches, the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) is ramping up efforts to enhance roadway safety, County 10 reports.
The patrol will participate in two concurrent safety initiatives: the 2024 Holiday Season Impaired Driving Enforcement Detail and the IACP – CARE Life Saver Week: DWUI Detail. Both programs aim to reduce traffic crashes, prevent impaired driving, and protect motorists during one of the busiest travel times of the year.
The initiatives will run from December 18, 2024, through January 1, 2025, a period when increased travel and winter weather create heightened risks on Wyoming’s roads.
Wyoming’s highways have seen a concerning number of fatal crashes in 2024, with 100 fatalities from 96 fatal crashes recorded so far. These numbers emphasize the need for stronger safety measures. Impaired driving and seat belt non-compliance are key contributors to the problem, according to the WHP.
Data from the past year highlights these issues:
- 83% of people who died in rollover crashes were not wearing seat belts.
- 31% of people who died in multi-vehicle crashes were not wearing seat belts.
- 70% of Wyoming residents who died were not wearing seat belts.
- 47% of non-residents who died were not wearing seat belts.
- 23% of traffic fatalities involved alcohol and/or drug impairment.
These figures underscore the importance of seat belt use and the dangers of driving under the influence.
To combat these risks, the Wyoming Highway Patrol will proactively enforce traffic laws during the holiday period. Colonel Tim Cameron, the head of the WHP, stressed the importance of addressing unsafe driving behaviors that contribute to crashes.
“Our troopers will remain vigilant and proactively enforce traffic laws during this critical time,” Cameron said. “We will focus on violations that contribute to crashes, including impaired driving, seat belt non-compliance, and other high-risk behaviors. Together, we can save lives and ensure safer travel for everyone this holiday season.”
Officers will be on the lookout for impaired drivers, speeders, and individuals not wearing seat belts. This increased presence aims to promote safe driving habits and reduce the risk of deadly crashes.
To support this effort, the Wyoming Highway Patrol is encouraging drivers to follow these safety guidelines:
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Wear seat belts at all times and ensure all passengers do the same.
- Drive cautiously in winter weather, adjusting speed and following at safe distances.
Winter driving in Wyoming presents unique challenges, with icy roads, snowstorms, and reduced visibility. By promoting caution and encouraging responsible driving, the WHP hopes to make holiday travel safer for everyone.
By joining the national Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE) initiative, the WHP is taking part in a larger effort to protect drivers not just in Wyoming, but across the country. These campaigns aim to raise public awareness, increase accountability for impaired driving, and encourage compliance with seat belt laws.
For more information about the Wyoming Highway Patrol’s initiatives and safety tips, visit WHP.WYO.GOV.
As families and friends prepare to travel for the Christmas and New Year holidays, the WHP’s message is clear: Make safety a priority. By wearing seat belts, avoiding impaired driving, and exercising caution in winter weather, motorists can help reduce the risk of crashes and ensure that everyone reaches their destination safely.
Stay safe, Wyoming, and have a happy holiday season.
