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It is a busy time on Utah highways! As the holiday season began, experts predicted more than a half million Utahns would travel by personal vehicle at least 50 miles from home. We don’t know if that actually happened, but anyone who has been out and about knows the roads have been busy. Sadly, as occurs far too often during festive times, joy turns to sorrow because of accidents that injure, maim and kill.
With that in mind on this last day of the year, and approaching a night when celebrations frequently impair judgment, KSL reminds one and all of the need to drive safely.
Foremost, of course, don’t drink and drive! It is a message, we’re gratified to note, that seems to be getting through, although far too many still ignore the warning. Of growing concern, though, is the number of motorists who drive while impaired for other reasons.
Lack of sleep is one example. It has been shown that the reaction time of one who has gone without sleep for 20 hours is about the same as someone who has a blood-alcohol level of .08 - the threshold for DUI arrests.
So, as busy as the highways are, let them be safe. KSL encourages a hefty dose of self-discipline this New Years Eve, along with realistic awareness of your condition if you’re getting behind the wheel.
