WHAT: National Stop On Red Week
WHEN: Aug. 2-8, 2009
SUMMARY: Collier County is joining communities across the nation in reminding motorists of the importance of stopping for red lights.
Sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration, National Stop on Red Week was created to educate drivers about the dangers of running red lights, reduce the number and severity of accidents on area roads and help increase traffic safety.
CCSO deputies will be conducting education and enforcement efforts throughout Collier County during the campaign in an effort to make our local roads safer.
CCSO also reminds drivers that when they see chronic red-light running, speeding or other traffic violations at a particular intersection they can call the CCSO Traffic Hotline at 530-ZOOM.
Red-light running is dangerous. In 2007 there were 132 red-light crashes in Collier County. Nationwide, more than 1,000 people are killed and more than 180,000 people are injured each year due to red-light running. These crashes cost motorists a collective $14 billion annually, according to the National Highway Safety Administration.
CCSO offers these tips for red-light safety:
* Don’t speed
* Be alert to your surroundings
* Be patient
* Avoid distractions like talking on the cell phone or eating while driving
* Don’t try to beat the red light
