Crime & Safety

Arlington Police Issue Holiday Safe Driving Tips

Nearly one-third of all drivers are more likely to drive more aggressively during the holidays, according to the Arlington County Police Department.

Nearly one-third of all drivers are more likely to drive more aggressively during the holidays, according to the Arlington County Police Department.

Statewide, Virginia saw 11 traffic fatalities just over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Arlington police issued the following tips in hopes of making sure the holidays are safe and happy for everyone, according to a news release.

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Buckle up: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that more than half of the people killed nationwide in traffic collisions were not wearing seat belts.

Protect Child Passengers: The safest place for child passengers is in the back seat. Be sure they have a child safety seat and that it is used the correct way.

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Don’t Drink and Drive: Every 45 minutes in the United States, someone dies from an alcohol-related crash. Be responsible and don’t drink and drive. If you do drink, designate a sober driver or take a cab or public transportation. The Arlington County Police Department is participating in the annual Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over campaign that continues through New Year’s Day.

Avoid Distractions: 10 percent of fatal crashes and 18 percent of injuries caused by crashes were distraction-related in 2012. Distractions to avoid while driving include, but aren’t limited to, cell phone use, texting, eating, drinking and using in-vehicle technologies and portable electronic devices.

Prepare for Inclement Weather: Last year, 4 percent of car crash fatalities over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend were weather-related. Be sure your car is weather-ready and fully serviced. Should the weather be bad, avoid driving, but if you are driving, be sure to drive slowly and know your vehicle.


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