Montgomery County Issues Warning Against Reckless Driving Ahead of Memorial Day

Per MCDOT: As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Montgomery County Department of Police and the County’s Department of Transportation (MCDOT) are issuing a critical warning to motorists: Be safe, be aware and be responsible. Montgomery County Police and allied local and State police departments will be on the roads with enhanced patrols and sobriety checkpoints to get impaired drivers off the road. Nationally, the holiday weekend, marked by celebrations and increased travel, often comes with a surge in traffic crashes caused by excessive speed, impairment and distracted driving. The National Safety Council estimates 469 people may die on U.S. roads this Memorial Day holiday.

“This Memorial Day weekend, let us honor the memory of our fallen heroes by ensuring their sacrifice is not overshadowed by preventable tragedies,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Every day, about 37 people die nationally in drunk driving crashes—that is one person every 39 minutes. Vision Zero and MCDOT continue to build and improve roadway infrastructure, but driver behavior plays a very important role as well. It is especially important for all of us to be diligent in making responsible choices this holiday weekend to ensure safer roads for everyone.”

While the causes are under investigation, this past weekend saw a distressing surge in local fatal crashes in Montgomery County, with four confirmed fatalities. In comparison, there were 46 total County fatal crashes in 2022, with 50 fatal victims, accounting for about one fatality a week.

While Montgomery County’s total fatalities this year so far are comparable to last year’s, the monthly total for May is trending higher. The recent number of crashes is a devastating reminder that summer months are a cause for extra precaution.

So far this year, eight of the 16 (50 percent) County crash fatalities are suspected of being impaired. The typical rate is 30 percent.
“Our officers will be working diligently to enforce traffic laws, and conduct sobriety checkpoints, throughout this extended weekend,” said Montgomery Police Chief Marcus Jones. “However, preventing crashes is a collective responsibility. Everyone must make a conscious effort to prioritize safety and make responsible choices. Anyone who chooses to drink alcohol should arrange for a safe ride or plan to take public transportation. With so many safe ride options available, there is no excuse for driving after drinking. It is a selfish decision that puts everyone on our roads at risk. It is a shared responsibility. These traffic deaths are preventable.”

The County’s Vision Zero effort to prevent death and injury on Montgomery County roadways offers a listing of local safe rides on its website here.

“We continue to invest and build infrastructure to make our roadways safer,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “While this takes time, it is important that we address that there are things all of us can do right now to help make our roadways safer. With the summer months bringing more people outdoors, it is paramount that we curb dangerous behaviors that impact everyone’s safety.”

MCDOT strongly emphasizes the following guidelines to ensure the safety of road users:

  • Adhere to posted speed limits. Speeding significantly increases the risk of crashes and serious injury and fatalities. Speed reduces the time available for drivers to react to unexpected situations.
  • Avoid impaired driving. Never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or any drugs that impair judgment and or coordination. If you are planning to consume alcohol, plan ahead for a safe ride.
  • Eliminate distractions. Maintain focus on the road by avoiding distractions such as mobile devices.
  • Buckle up. Ensure that all vehicle occupants are properly restrained with seat belts or age-appropriate child safety seats. Seat belts save lives and significantly reduce injuries in the event of a crash.
  • Plan ahead. Before traveling, map out your route and plan for potential traffic and delays. Allow ample time to arrive so you are not inclined to rush.
  • Rest up and be alert. Fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time. Do your best to get sufficient rest before traveling. If drowsiness occurs, pull over to a safe area to rest or switch drivers if possible.

“It is imperative that residents prioritize safety and be considerate of others during this Memorial Day weekend to avoid additional tragedies,” said Director Conklin. “Individual decisions can have a great impact on others. Arrangements for a designated driver should occur before drinking begins. Research public transportation schedules. Schedule a ride service. It is vital that everyone takes responsibility and contributes to a community that looks out for one another.”

Recent Stories

Chief U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar today sentenced John Willie Kennedy, a/k/a “Cognac” and “Yak,” age 46, of Gaithersburg, Maryland, to six years in federal prison, followed by three…

Today, Monumental Sports & Entertainment’s Founder, Chairman, Principal Partner, and CEO, Ted Leonsis, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson announced an agreement for a “transformative renovation…

The City of Gaithersburg was awarded $1,000,000 in direct federal funding for the Russell Avenue Multimodal and Streetscape Improvements project. Funds will update Russell Avenue to better connect Olde Towne…

$37 million first phase of the Westbard Square redevelopment project has signed new tenants with a few businesses already open in the 23-acre project at Westbard Ave. and Ridgefield Rd. Overall,…

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

×

Subscribe to our mailing list