Iowans can expect to see an increased law enforcement presence on roadways in the days before Christmas and extending into the first week of the new year. Iowa State Patrol Trooper and District 4 Public Resource Officer, Shelby McCreedy, says this upcoming Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) lasts from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2 and coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) holiday Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort (CARE), which runs through Jan. 1.
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Unfortunately, the state’s goal of fewer than 300 traffic fatalities is no longer possible. However, she is optimistic they can finish the year strong and get off to the right start in 2022. McCreedy says people planning on traveling for the holiday should anticipate a larger than usual number of motorists.
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Law enforcement is targeting the most common behaviors that lead to fatal accidents: speeding, distracting driving, seat belt usage and more. However, McCreedy says they are putting an emphasis on one particular behavior that occurs frequently near the end of the year.
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She adds getting to and from your holiday destinations safely is a simple task if drivers keep the basics in mind.
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As of Tuesday, Dec. 21, Iowa’s traffic fatalities for 2021 total 340 and McCreedy says law enforcement would prefer to see that number stay unchanged through the holidays.