FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2001
CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8755

HIGHWAY PATROL INCREASES ENFORCEMENT IN AIKEN COUNTY

COLUMBIA - The South Carolina Department of Public Safety’s Highway Patrol announces that it has stepped up its enforcement in Aiken County in an effort to combat the soaring fatality rate. The District One S.T.O.P. team and two motorcycle troopers will supplement the efforts of the four Aiken County troopers who are currently assigned to traffic enforcement, increasing the number of troopers devoted solely to traffic enforcement to 10.

"The fatality numbers in Aiken County have increased significantly this year," said District One Capt. Russell Roark. "So far this year, 27 people have died in traffic crashes in Aiken County this year, compared to 21 fatalities for the entire year of 2000."

The causes of the deadly crashes in Aiken County vary from inattention and speed to driving under the influence. Many of the fatal collisions involve only one vehicle and occur on two-lane roads during daylight hours. The majority of those killed in traffic crashes in Aiken County this year were not wearing seat belts.

"Most of the fatal collisions were caused by some sort of driver error and could have been prevented," Roark said. "Motorists just aren’t getting the message that they must drive defensively and buckle up every time they get into the car."

In addition to stepping up its enforcement efforts, the Highway Patrol hopes that its high visibility will have a deterrent effect, reminding motorists to obey all traffic laws.

"Even with all our efforts, the Highway Patrol can only do so much," Roark said. "The most effective way to lower the number of collisions and fatalities is for each person to drive responsibly. The motoring public has got to do its part, too."

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JB/127/2001

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