NEWS RELEASE: November 20 , 2006
FROM: The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT: LT John Eichkorn 785-296-6800
Trooper Edna R. Buttler
Patrol Ties on Red Ribbons
The Kansas Highway Patrol is tying red ribbons to agency-owned vehicles as part of Mothers Against Drunk Driving's (MADD) Project Red Ribbon "Tie One On For Safety" campaign. Beginning November 20, the Patrol will use the ribbons to show the agency's zero tolerance toward impaired driving. The Patrol will display the red ribbons throughout the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year holidays.
Patrol Superintendent Colonel William Seck said, "This ribbon symbolizes our agency's dedication to apprehending impaired drivers and educating the public to drive safe and sober during the holidays. The ribbons also memorialize the lives lost due to senseless alcohol-related tragedies. I encourage all motorists to tie a MADD ribbon to an antenna, side mirror, or door handle, pledging to drive safely."
According to Kansas MADD, approximately 20,000 individuals are arrested annually in Kansas for impaired driving. Statistics compiled by the Kansas Department of Transportation show there were 3,039 alcohol-related crashes in 2005, resulting in 88 deaths and 1,356 injuries. During the 2005 Thanksgiving reporting period (6 p.m., Wednesday through midnight Sunday), there were 49 alcohol-related crashes that resulted in one death and 32 injuries. During last year's Christmas reporting period (December 23-26), there were 38 alcohol-related crashes with no deaths and 33 injuries. There were 45 alcohol-related crashes, resulting in three deaths and 32 injuries, in the 2005 New Year reporting period (Thursday through Sunday).
The Patrol reminds motorists to not drink and drive, and do not let your friends or family members drive drunk. If you consume alcohol, call a friend, family member, or taxi service for a sober ride home, or make plans to have a sober ride home before going to holiday parties.
Ribbons are available free of charge at Kansas Highway Patrol troop headquarter facilities throughout the state. You also may call the MADD Heartland Regional Office at (816) 254-5200.