Message Monday - Old Glory waves for lives lost - drive safely
When Memorial Day was first envisioned in 1868 following the Civil War, it was to be a day of remembrance of those who lost their lives in battle.
In the years since the meaning has broadened to include all those friends and family members who have gone before us. It’s a day to visit cemeteries and decorate gravesites.
For those loved ones who have tragically died in crashes, Memorial Day can be just one more difficult day for friends and family to endure. What makes the day even more tragic is that the majority of those deaths could have been prevented.
The day also now marks the unofficial beginning of summer, which can include backyard parties that can lead to bad driving behaviors. Do your part to make it home safely to your loved ones.
- Slow down
- Drive sober
- Focus on the road
- Stay alert
- Buckle up
Here’s a link to a little more history on Memorial Day - http://mentalfloss.com/article/27858/10-things-remember-about-memorial-day
For 2019, there have been 107 fatalities reported. That’s an increase of six since last Monday. The 2018 fatality count stands at 317. This is subject to change as law enforcement reports are completed. To see statistics published daily by the Office of Driver Services, go to the daily fatality report at https://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/stats/daily.pdf.