Furthermore, in most of these crashes, the impaired driver failed to buckle them up. The Oak Bluffs Police Department believes that education is essential to dissipating these two national problems, which effect local residents as well. In its desire to better inform its citizens, the Department would like to remind drivers of Massachusetts State Law. Following these few safety instructions, not only during the holiday season but also throughout the year, will result in fewer deaths or serious injuries from automobile related incidents. During the grant period, the Department is particularly committed to increasing safety belt and child safety seat use, as these two actions are the most proven, cost-effective way to reduce motor vehicle related fatalities and injuries.
Safety belts reduce the risk of death and serious injury by an astounding fifty percent.
The lowest usage rates were among young people aged 6 to 12 and 16 to 19. The large percentages of young people either choosing not to restrain themselves or having guardians who determine seat belt usage for them is unwarranted. Public Safety is a primary concern of the Oak Bluffs Police Department. The safety of children is imperative. Proper safety belt usage and reducing the number of drunk drivers on our local roads is key to the success of the Department's ongoing commitment to public safety.