Greater Fort Myers Chamber Of Commerce: Holiday Driving Dangers

Press release from Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce:

2021-10-14

HOLIDAY DRIVING EXPECTED

TO BE DANGEROUS ON HIGHWAYS

Holiday Season Likely to Bring

Surge of Traffic Despite COVID Cases

The 2021 holiday season will be unlike any other in modern history.  As we approach the holidays and gather with loved ones and friends, drivers must remember that this time of year often brings a surge of traffic on our roadways.   This is especially significant in Southwest Florida where the weather is always warm and many out-of-staters come to enjoy our sunshine.  Unfortunately, this brings a  significant increase in roadway crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

For many, the holiday season is a time for reflection and giving.  One of the greatest gifts that one can be offered is the gift of driving sober.  The poet Mary Oliver said, ‘Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable.”   That seems right for the season

It is important to plan ahead when you will be celebrating—choose a designated driver, stay where you are, or arrange for another form of safe transportation home. This could save a life –even your own!

Additional Holiday Driving Tips

Lee Health and the Injury Prevention Coalition want to wish everyone a joyous and safe holiday season by giving the gift of life and driving cautiously and sober!  When in doubt, call for a ride or stay where you are.  Beware of becoming complacent as it applies to driving safely.

The Lee County Injury Prevention Coalition serves as a collaborative effort or partnership whose function is to facilitate partners’ work and act as a catalyst for injury prevention initiatives.  Its mission is to prevent injury, disability, and death through advocacy, education, legislation, and partnerships.

Information for this article was supplied by Tracey N. Walton. Trauma Injury Prevention Educator for Lee Health.

Additional information about the Injury Prevention Coalition or safe driving during the holiday season may contact Brian Raimondo at ipcleecounty@gmail.com or 239-330-2240.

This press release was produced by Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce. The views expressed here are the author’s own.