BPD: Stay safe, Drive responsibly

As 2023 arrives, law enforcement officials hope you are resolved about safe driving while celebrating the upcoming New Year’s Eve: It might save your life.

Although the big night is on a Sunday (Dec. 30) this year, the Brazil Police Department will be paying attention.

Assistant Police Chief Dennis Archer is reviewing the schedule to determine what officers will be working this holiday weekend and if more are needed.

“I really hope people will prepare ahead of time and plan what they are going to do if they celebrate a little too much,” said Archer, adding officers would be on patrol in Brazil. “Always use caution when driving.”

The Clay County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police will also be throughout the county.

“If people are going to celebrate this weekend, I hope they are responsible,“ said Clay County Sheriff Paul Harden. “Our officers will be on duty, but I hope people are responsible and cautious for everyone’s safety.”

ISP provided some tips to remember not only this weekend but throughout 2023:

Buckle Up

Seat belt use is the single most important factor in preventing or reducing the severity of injuries to vehicle occupants involved in a traffic crash. It takes less than two seconds to buckle up. Make it a habit.

Steer with a Clear Head

Driving while drowsy--whether due to a lack of sleep, the effect of even a small amount of alcohol, or the use of a prescription drug or over-the-counter medication--can delay reaction time, decrease concentration and reduce judgment skills.

Make sure you are alert before getting behind the wheel.

Drive Distraction-Free

Driving distraction-free means actively scanning the road ahead and the driving environment surrounding your vehicle, keeping your hands on the wheel and mind on driving. Before you go, take a moment to think of those who are counting on you to get home safely every day.

Then turn your phone off.

Because cell phone use occurs with such frequency and duration, it’s more likely to lead to a crash than other forms of distraction.

Parking and Backing Basics

Parking lot incidents are typically low-speed collisions but can still lead to property damage and injuries. Safety experts recommend backing into a parking space rather than pulling in. This way, your vehicle faces out when it’s time to exit. If you must back out, complete a vehicle walk-around to check for children and objects. Once all is clear, exit promptly and cautiously, as conditions may change.

Fine Tune the Fundamentals

Being rear-ended and rear-ending another vehicle are two of the most frequent crashes; try to avoid these common collisions. Always leave at least 3-4 seconds of distance between a vehicle and the one in front.

If the roads are wet or slippery, double your following distance.