One of the longest traffic enforcement initiatives seen in years began on Aug. 20 and is in effect for more than two weeks through Sept. 6. There is a focus on impaired driving for that program in the ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe on our roadways. Iowa State Patrol Trooper and Public Resource Officer for District 4 in Denison, Shelby McCreedy, says there is an added effort specifically for the Labor Day weekend, from Sept. 3 through Sept. 6, that is being implemented by a task force formed earlier this year to address a frightening surge in fatal accidents.
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The expanded law enforcement presence will be looking out for the major factors that contribute to fatal accidents.
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McCreedy says the task force has been working hard to bring about more awareness on the effectiveness of safety belts after a report that 100 percent of the fatal accidents in January involved unbelted individuals. She says there is a misconception that someone who is not wearing a seatbelt and dies in an accident has broken the law.
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She says there are things people can do to keep themselves, their passengers and others on the roadways safe this weekend, and all year long.
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McCreedy says that is their sole purpose as well, and they strive for that outcome every single day.