Labor Day Motor Vehicle Crash Fatalities Down This Year
The Oregon State Police released some statistics on traffic fatalities over the Labor Day Weekend. For only the third time since 1970, only one person lost their life on Oregon highways this holiday weekend. This is a sharp decline from the 11 deaths that occurred one year ago. There were also less drunk driving arrests. Last year, police arrested 87 people on suspicion of DUII, and this year, 72.
It's hard to know if these numbers show any trends. It may be the silver lining to higher fuel prices or the recession. Certainly, drunk driving arrests are down, especially with increased enforcement. Still, many are calling for a second look at the DUII laws.
Other Relevant Links:
Governors Highway Association
Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety article
