KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Wearing a seatbelt, driving only when sober, and following the speed limit are safe driving strategies for everyone. This month, motorists who speed through King County, drink and drive, or disregard Washington’s seatbelt law are even more likely to get a traffic ticket. Through the end of the month, the King County Sheriff’s Office will staff extra traffic patrols in several King County cities.

Funding for these extra traffic safety patrols comes from Public Health - Seattle & King County as part of its injury prevention work. Visible enforcement of traffic laws is a proven strategy to reduce injuries from motor vehicle crashes.

“Driving is serious business, and deserves your careful, undivided attention,” said King County Executive Ron Sims. “It is also important to buckle-up, drive sober, and follow the speed limit.”

In 2004, 993 King County residents were hospitalized for injuries sustained in a motor-vehicle crash. In addition, 126 King County residents died in motor vehicle collisions.

“Injuries are the number one cause of death for people ages one to 44,” said Dorothy Teeter, Interim Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. “Deaths from motor vehicle crashes account for a large number of these injury deaths, and speed and alcohol fuel these fatal crashes.”

“Take simple actions such as slowing down, paying attention, and arranging a safe, sober ride home if you choose to drink,” stated Teeter.

“We are committed to keeping the roadways under our jurisdiction safe,” said King County Sheriff Sue Rahr. “Putting extra officers on King County roads and streets to find, ticket, or arrest these dangerous drivers is an important boost to public safety.”

The following communities will have extra patrols in November: Burien, Maple Valley, Newcastle, Sammamish, SeaTac and Woodinville.

Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.

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