Survive the Drive Initiative Concludes But Efforts Continue

Local and state officials gathered in Clayton earlier this year for the kickoff of the Survive The Drive initiative involving the NC Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agency partners. Photos by John Payne

The State Highway Patrol, in partnership with the Governor’s Highway Safety Program, has concluded a multi-agency initiative entitled Survive the Drive.  Launched in January, the six-month campaign focused on reducing collisions along rural roads throughout the state.

Officials from local, county and state law enforcement organizations intensified their efforts to alter driver behavior using a two-prong approach; education and enforcement.  Safe driving practices were offered throughout the campaign using traffic safety programs, PSA’s and social media.

Along with education, officers also increased the enforcement of motor vehicle laws to include distracted driving, speeding, seatbelt and driving while impaired violations.

While agency participation was statewide, Cleveland, Harnett, Johnston, Randolph and Sampson counties were selected to concentrate high-visibility traffic enforcement efforts.  Although the campaign’s predetermined conclusion date has passed, the efforts among all organizations involved will continue throughout the year.

The campaign was the result of recommendations made in a report by the National Governors Association and is part of a nationwide vision in the reduction of traffic fatalities.