Published: April 18, 2008 05:26 pm      

Traffic fatalities rise during prom season

Ada — Officials are warning teens and parents about the dangers of alcohol and drug related traffic fatalities during prom and graduation season.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently released data from its Fatality Analysis Reporting System which shows alcohol-related fatalities increase between the middle of April and the middle of June.

The data shows that in the year 2000, 58 percent of traffic fatalities were alcohol-related during prom and graduation period. This compares with 41 percent for the rest of the year.

In addition, 36 percent of all alcohol-related traffic fatalities are young people between the ages of 15 and 20, which is below the legal age to consume alcoholic beverages.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol Spokesman Captain Chris West said prom night should be a positive experience but unfortunately, some teens’ poor judgment and risky behavior inevitably ends in tragedy, specifically the choice to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The OHP is asking teens to not drink alcohol or use other substances that will compromise their ability to make good decisions. If someone else is driving, teens should make sure that person hasn’t been drinking. Teens should ask a trusted adult to be available that night in case they need a ride home.

Parents should express concerns about the dangers of driving under the influence. It should be emphasized that these dangers are particularly high on prom night.

“Make your prom night the memorable time it’s meant to be. If you choose to drink and drive, chances are you will spend your prom night in a jail cell, a hospital, or worse,” West said.

“OHP would also like to remind everyone to buckle up. Please help us make your prom night a safe and enjoyable one. The worst part of our job is making a death notification.”