Working together leads to safe travel

Col. Herman T. Jones

By Colonel Herman T. Jones

At the Kansas Highway Patrol, one of our top priorities is to reduce the number and severity of traffic crashes from impaired driving across the state of Kansas. Through our traffic enforcements and partnerships with statewide organizations, agencies and activities, we are dedicated to keeping our highways and roadways safe. With our selective enforcements and public service announcements reminding drivers to move over and slow down for highway and roadway officials, drive alert, drive sober, and buckle up, we can significantly reduce fatal crashes.

Keep these enforcements in mind while you travel to your next destination:

While you are driving, put away your phones and other distractions. No text message or phone call is more important than your life or the lives of those around you. We all have loved ones that we want to come home to at the end of the day.

In addition, make sure to move over and slow down when you are approaching first responders, construction workers or anyone pulled over on the shoulder of a roadway. Dial *47 (KHP) or *582 (KTA) if you see someone in need of assistance on the highway or turnpike.

Always remember to drive alert. If you feel tired, pull over and call for assistance. Prepare in advance if you think you will be drinking by arranging a ride share service, taxi or designated driver to get you, your friends and your family home safely.

Finally, be sure you and your passengers always buckle up before driving anywhere. Don’t do this just to avoid costly citations. Do it because it will likely save your life.

Through our partnerships with programs like Put on the B.R.A.K.E.S., and organizations such as KDOT and the Kansas Turnpike Authority, we strive to improve the quality of driving in our state. With your help, every traveler can feel safe as they commute to and through the great Sunflower State.

Colonel Herman T. Jones is the Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol.