Island motorists urged to drive with caution 09-23-03

HAWAII COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT
TRAFFIC SERVICES SECTION
SERGEANT RANDY K. APELE
PHONE: 961-2305
SEPTEMBER 23, 2003

MEDIA RELEASE

Noting an increase in major traffic crashes this year, Big Island police are advising motorists to drive with caution.

As of September 22, 2003, there were 1,706 traffic crashes recorded on the Big Island so far this year, compared to 1,612 recorded during the same period last year, an increase of 6 percent.

“Excessive speed is a major factor in these traffic collisions,” said Sergeant Randy Apele, head of the Traffic Services Section.

Apele urged motorists to follow the posted speed limit and to travel below the allowable speed limit during adverse weather conditions.

Other major factors contributing to traffic collisions are violations of right-of-way and driver inattention, Apele said, urging motorists to drive with care and to pay attention to their driving.

He said major driver distractions include the use of cell phones, eating food and drinking beverages, applying makeup and distraction by passengers.

“Whenever drivers try to do something else while driving, it diverts their attention away from the road,” he said. “We recommend that they refrain from doing anything else while driving.”

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