PennDOT, Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA), New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Delaware State Police (DSP), Pennsylvania DUI Association, MADD, and victim speaker Ceaira Barnshaw held an event Thursday at the Walt Whitman Bridge to promote safe driving during the Labor Day holiday.
“During the end-of-summer gatherings with friends and family, it’s important to prioritize everyone’s safety. Driving under the influence can have deadly outcomes and is entirely avoidable,” emphasized PennDOT Safety Press Officer Krys Johnson. “There’s no justification for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. As you plan your Labor Day festivities, ensure you have a sober driver for the journey home.”
During the holiday period, which runs through September 2, local and state law enforcement will target impaired drivers through enforcement details. Motorists found driving with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08 or over will be arrested.
“The DRPA Police Department strives to safely get all motorists to their holiday destinations. Together, we can achieve that goal with safe driving practices and avoiding substances that impair drivers. Staying off the road while under the influence will keep everyone on the road safe and free to enjoy their holiday,” said DRPA Lieutenant Sean Longfellow.
According to PennDOT data, during the Labor Day travel period in 2023, there were 291 crashes and two fatalities in the Philadelphia region. The travel period started on Friday, September 1, and ended on Monday, September 4. Of these, 29 crashes and one fatality were related to impaired driving.
Impairment can affect a person’s judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time, impacting others on the road. It’s important to note that alcohol consumption is not the only cause of a DUI arrest. Drivers who are under the influence of illegal drugs or prescription medication are also at risk of being arrested for DUI. Driving under the influence of drugs is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. This stresses the importance of understanding how prescribed medications affect your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
MADD is dedicated to supporting law enforcement efforts to protect roadways, especially during busy times such as the end of a bustling summer. Victim speaker Ceaira Barnshaw delivered a powerful speech, emphasizing the significant impact of impaired driving on her family.
On Saturday, January 28, 2023, a tragic incident occurred in Chester County, resulting in the death of Christine Severino, the mother of Barnshaw and her four siblings.
A head-on crash took Severino’s life when an impaired driver entered the opposite lane on Route 422 in Tredyffrin Township, colliding with Severino. The collision was fatal for Severino, while the impaired driver, who was found to be under the influence while operating a vehicle, was responsible for the crash. This somber account highlights the devastating consequences of impaired driving and underscores the need for increased awareness and vigilance to prevent such tragedies.
It is recommended that those who choose to walk as an alternative mode of transportation have a designated walker to help them safely travel to and from their destination. Impaired pedestrians can also make poor decisions on the road, putting themselves at risk.
The public is encouraged to always plan ahead by designating a sober driver or a walker, arranging for alternative transportation, and always wearing a seatbelt when in a vehicle. Wearing a seatbelt is the best defense in the event of a crash.
“Impaired driving remains a significant national issue that affects the safety and well-being of our communities. The Delaware State Police is dedicated to enhancing road safety in Delaware by boosting public awareness of the laws and enforcement efforts,” said DSP Corporal Amina Ali.
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