Editorial: Beware of dangerous driving this time of year

The importance of staying safe behind the wheel should always be on motorists’ minds, but there are certain times of year when it’s especially good to issue some reminders. We are entering such a period now.

As the season for summer activities winds down, the need for vigilance on the road goes up.

The days leading up to Labor Day weekend are filled with people trying to squeeze in some more fun before we start the transition to autumn. These are also the days when children return to school, posing additional hazards for motorists and students alike.

That’s why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets aside late August and early September for its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. This year it runs from Aug. 16 through Sept. 4. The intent is to educate people about the dangers and consequences of impaired driving. The campaign is accompanied by stepped up sobriety checkpoints and highway patrols to crack down on the dangerous and illegal practice.

There’s a reason for focusing on this time of year. The NHTSA reports that 531 people died in traffic crashes on Labor Day weekend 2021, with 41% of those accidents involving a drunk driver and 27% involving a driver with a blood-alcohol content of 0.15% or more, double the legal limit.

The message is clear: There’s no excuse for driving after drinking alcoholic beverages and putting one’s own life and the lives of others at risk.

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a social gathering that involves alcohol, provided that those who drink are prepared to use a designated driver, a taxi or a ride-sharing service. Remember too that drug-impaired driving is just as dangerous as getting behind the wheel after drinking, and law enforcement officials say it is a growing problem.

If the potential risks to life and limb aren’t sufficiently persuasive, consider that a drunken-driving arrest leads to thousands of dollars in court costs alone, among other penalties.

So follow the NHTSA’s advice if you’re going out to drink now or any other time of year:

• Before drinking, plan a safe and sober ride home.

• Don’t let someone get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking.

• If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure all your guests have a sober ride home.

• If you see an impaired driver, call 911. And always wear your seat belt — it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.

As for the issue of driving during back-to-school season, one might think that it doesn’t require too much conversation. But there’s a reason why the “school’s open, drive carefully” slogan came about.

Much as motorists seem to forget how to drive in snow and ice when winter weather makes its seasonal debut, many also forget how conditions change this time of year, especially at the start and end of each school day.

According to the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are 4 to 7 years old, and they’re walking. Typically they are hit by a bus or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus.

First and foremost, remember that passing a bus with its stop arm extended and its red lights flashing is a serious traffic offense in Pennsylvania. Those who violate the law face serious punishment, including a $250 fine, a 60-day license suspension and five points on their driver’s license.

The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; so be sure to stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus All motorists must pay close attention to their surroundings.

And parents must reinforce safety lessons for their kids. That means using sidewalks and crosswalks, paying attention to crossing guards, never crossing in front of a school bus, and being vigilant about watching for oncoming traffic.

Late summer and early fall are loaded with great activities and (hopefully) pleasant weather. And the holiday season won’t be far behind. Don’t let inattention or a foolish decision ruin what should be a great time.