Drivers Urged to Follow Traffic Laws to Improve Safety on Kentucky Highways

While it is clear that violating a red light law could result in serious injuries, many people choose to ignore other laws that were put in place to improve the safety of people traveling Kentucky highways.  Posted speed limits, drunk driving laws and seat belt laws have been shown to save lives when followed.  Unfortunately, far too many KY drivers violate these safety laws, putting themselves and others at risk for serious injury and death. 

According to WHAS 11,in a crash last weekend in Louisville, several traffic laws were violated and the driver now faces charges of assault, wanton endangerment, and DUI.  The alcohol-impaired driver lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a tree, causing his unbelted passenger to be ejected.  The passenger died several days later.  This scenario is far too prevalent in Kentucky accidents.  

In 2011, there were 721 traffic-related fatalities in Kentucky. Nearly half of those deaths, 339, were among motorists or passengers who were not wearing a seatbelt, or the seatbelt usage was not known.  In addition, 123 of the fatalities were in accidents where alcohol was a factor.

Kentucky has a primary seat belt law, which means that law enforcement officers can stop a vehicle solely for an occupant restraint violation. KY’s law requires the driver and all passengers to wear proper safety restraints. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelt usage across the U.S. reached 85% in 2010.  Kentucky had a usage rate of 80% in 2010. The NHTSA estimates that in Kentucky 289 lives were saved due to seat belt usage. The agency also estimates that an additional 127 lives could have been saved in 2010 if seat belt usage reached 100% compliance. 

The NHTSA reports traffic-related injuries are the number one cause of death for people ages four to thirty-four and are the top cause of unintentional injury death for all Americans. 

Our Lexington car accident lawyers continue to urge all drivers and passengers to wear safety belts when riding in a vehicle.  Following all traffic laws is critical for ensuring safety on the highway. As always, we also ask that you don’t drink and drive.