Every hour someone in America dies simply because they didn’t buckle up. In 2003, more than 562,000 people were involved in traffic crashes in Florida. Of those who were not buckled up, nearly 50 percent were injured or killed. Currently, only 72.5 percent of Floridians wear their safety belts.

In past years, the 96-hour Labor Day weekend has proven to be among the most deadly for drivers. Twenty-two were people killed on Florida roads last year.



Hands Across the Border events were created by safety advocates from across the southeast to find ways to focus on the importance of using occupant protection devices. Organizers hope this unified effort focusing on safety belts, child safety seats and DUI will result in higher usage rates of safety devices and a reduction in alcohol-related injuries.



This year commemorated the 13th anniversary of Hands Across the Border and more than 17 states nationwide participated in the annual event. In 1992 these advocates came together and created the first Hands Across the Border event in the Jacksonville, Florida and Valdosta, Georgia areas.



The local Hands Across the Border event took place September 2 when officers from over 20 law enforcement agencies met at the Georgia Visitor’s Center on I-75 near Lake Park, Ga. Representatives from Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, the Institute of Police Technology and Management, and other government officials were also present.



Several safety advocacy groups were distributing literature and free gifts to travelers. CSX Operation Lifesaver urges safe driving habits around highway-railroad intersections and safety in railroad rights-of-way. TEAM Georgia encourages safe and sober driving choices as a means of reducing transportation crashes, injuries and fatalities. The 100 Days of Summer HEAT (Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic) initiative is trying to reduce speeding and aggressive driving. The Valdosta Junior Woman’s club encourages children to “Bee a buckler” with coloring books and crayons. Georgia Bikes! is a non-profit organization that is working to promote bicycling and to improve bicycling conditions.



After several short speeches, the officers left the Georgia Welcome Center traveling north on I-75. The impressive parade of law enforcement vehicles circled through the Lake Park, GA exit and returned to I-75 traveling south. The procession of cars stopped at the Florida Welcome Center where Gerald Ruise, IPTM Hands Across the Border coordinator, presented several awards.



The officers enjoyed their time visiting with each other but then they returned to the road to remind everyone: Buckle up! Don’t speed! Don’t drink and drive!