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Show I Don't make Memorial Day a tragedy drive safe Nationally between 400 and 500 people may die in traffic accidents during Memorial Day weekend. The Utah Safety Council estimates that as many as six Utahns could be killed as a result of traffic accidents during this holiday period. These figures are calculated from fatality counts on the Memorial Day weekend over the past five years. The three-day holiday begins at 6 p.m. Friday, May 22, and ends at midnight Monday, May 25. In 1986, there were more traffic fatalities during Memorial Day Holiday than any other of the major holiday periods. Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the "101 critical days of summer." More motor vehicle accidents happen during this time than at any other time during the year. Of the 3 1 1 traffic deaths which occurred last year in Utah, a total of 101 took pake during the summer months. A total of 32 percent of all fatalities occur during the months of June, July, and August. The Council encourages drivers and passengers to consistently consistent-ly wear seat belts. Safety belts should be worn at all times, not just on long distance trips. About 75 percent of all serious and fatal injuries occur within 25 miles of victim's homes at speeds less than 40 mph. A crash at only 30 mph will hurl an unbelted passenger forward with a force equal to that of falling out a third-story window. Some additional steps that can be taken to reduce traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities are as follows: -If you drink alcoholic beverages, do not drive. -Have your vehicle inspected before going on any long distance dis-tance trips. Special attention should be given to the brakes, tires, and cooling system. Switch drivers periodically during z extended trips or, if you travel alone, stop when you become drowsy. Do not exceed the speed limit even if you are behind schedule. sche-dule. It is better to arrive late at your destination than not arrive at all. Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one - ahead.""":'"-'"'' " " Always drive defensively. . |