(La Porte County, IN) - The La Porte County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute to keep roads safe and prevent traffic fatalities during the holidays. 

 

The upcoming effort is part of the annual Safe Family Travel campaign supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

From November 26 through the end of December, the campaign will focus on impaired driving, aggressive driving and seat belt violations. During this time, deputies will conduct saturation patrols to deter unsafe driving and encourage seat belt use.   “We see the consequences of unsafe driving every day,” said ICJI Executive Director Douglas Huntsinger.

 

According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes, especially during the holiday season.  Likewise, failure to wear a seat belt continues to be one of the most preventable causes of death on roadways.

 

“Driving safely is a shared responsibility,” said La Porte County Police Capt.  Derek J. Allen.   “If you plan to consume alcohol, plan a safe ride home.  Stay sober behind the wheel or arrange a sober ride before the night begins,” he said.