The “Be Safe Botetourt” Traffic Safety Program, implemented by Sheriff Matt Ward is a comprehensive safety initiative designed to increase traffic safety awareness and enhance road safety throughout Botetourt County. The program encompasses all traffic safety initiatives and traffic safety campaigns such as Click it or Ticket, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, School Bus Safety, and many other safety topics.
Through collaboration with community business partners, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and local and state law enforcement partners, this initiative focuses on proactive high visibility traffic enforcement and educating motorists on traffic laws to reduce traffic crashes and related deaths, serious injuries, and loss of property. By targeting dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving, the program seeks to ensure the safest possible traffic environment for all motorists. “Be Safe Botetourt” also emphasizes community engagement and outreach, providing residents with information and resources to promote safe driving habits.
The intent of this initiative is for the sheriff to incorporate proactive traffic enforcement strategies to identify and target high-risk areas, deploying resources effectively to enforce traffic laws. A data-driven approach is employed to inform and guide enforcement and education efforts, with continuous evaluation and adjustment of strategies based on outcomes. Sheriff Ward added that he is committed to the safety of county citizens and will provide the community with high-visibility traffic enforcement to minimize these senseless tragedies.
During the Labor Day holiday period, typically there is an increase in impaired-driving deaths — and that’s why you’ll likely see more law enforcement on the roads. Labor Day is one of the busiest and deadliest holiday travel times due to alcohol-impaired-driving crashes. Labor Day is a holiday that honors the contributions of American workers, and it’s also a time for family gatherings, barbecues, and the unofficial end of summer. To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday, Sheriff Ward wants to remind the public that driving impaired is dangerous and has serious legal consequences.
Drivers are encouraged to follow these safety tips:
- Plan Ahead. With more vehicles on the road, traffic congestion is inevitable. Plan your trips ahead of time and consider leaving early to avoid peak travel hours. Expect delays and remember that arriving a few minutes late is far better than risking an accident. Allow for extra time to reach your destination.
- Don’t Drink and Drive. Labor Day celebrations often include alcohol; drinking and driving is a deadly combination. Arrange for a designated driver or use a rideshare service if you plan on consuming alcohol.
- Avoid Distractions. Stay focused on driving and the road. Avoid using your phone while driving. Driving distracted is one of the leading causes of traffic crashes.
- Buckle Up. Whether you’re traveling across the state or across town, seat belts save lives.
- Observe the Speed Limit and Traffic Laws. Slow down and stick to the speed limit. Obey all traffic laws and remember that speeding and aggressive driving put everyone at risk.
“This Labor Day weekend, let’s all do our part to make our roads safer this holiday. By planning ahead, staying alert, and following traffic laws, we can all contribute to safer holiday travels for everyone,” Sheriff Ward said.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
