As families gather for the holidays, laughter, stories and joy will fill homes across Nevada. Yet, for too many, there will be an empty seat at the table -- a poignant reminder of lives lost on our roads.
This year alone, Nevada has seen 375 fatalities on its roadways, with a staggering 267 in Clark County -- a nearly 13% increase over last year. These numbers are not mere statistics; they represent parents, siblings, friends and neighbors whose absence is deeply felt.
Modern vehicles are marvels of safety engineering, equipped with features like blind spot monitors and collision-avoidance systems. Despite these advancements, human error, distracted driving and sheer speed continue to take a devastating toll. The advanced safety technology is no match for reckless or distracted driving.
December is particularly hazardous, as holiday activities bring additional traffic, an increase in alcohol consumption, hurried schedules and heightened distractions. The responsibility to drive safely cannot be outsourced to machines; it rests firmly with us.
The stakes are high. Impaired driving, whether from alcohol, drugs or fatigue, claims lives every day. Texting or scrolling while driving diverts attention long enough to cause catastrophic accidents. Speeding to make up for lost time can turn a minor fender bender into a fatal collision. Every decision we make behind the wheel has consequences, and the most precious gift we can give this season is ensuring that everyone arrives home safely.
With crowded roads packed with hurried families rushing to be with loved ones, the holidays can be an especially dangerous time. That's why we're asking people across the Silver State to join us in making our streets safer for ourselves, our loved ones and everyone we share the road with. In that spirit, we've gathered a list of tips for safer holiday travel:
* Plan for a sober ride: Holiday celebrations often include alcohol, but drinking and driving remains one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare or public transportation. Be mindful of increased recreational marijuana use as well, which can impair judgment and slow reaction times.
* Avoid distractions: Nevada law prohibits using handheld devices while driving, yet too many people still glance at their phones. The road deserves your full attention -- text messages and notifications can wait.
* Slow down and be ready to hit the brakes: Roads that are usually quiet may see increased traffic during the holidays. With mild temperatures and children out of school, kids can ride bikes or chase a ball into the road with little notice. Whether you're on a familiar route or navigating unfamiliar roads, slow down, adjust for conditions and always be prepared to make a sudden stop. Slowing down saves lives.
* Stay rested: Holiday travel often involves long drives, late nights or early departures. If you're feeling drowsy, pull over and rest or find a safe place to sleep. Driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
* Wear your seat belt: Seat belts remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up before you start driving.
* Be vigilant as a pedestrian: Pedestrians must also prioritize safety. Use crosswalks, stay alert, and move purposefully when crossing streets. Remember that "having the legal right-of-way" offers little comfort in the aftermath of an accident.
* Keep a safe following distance: Holiday traffic can be unpredictable, with sudden stops and congested roads. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to give yourself time to react and a clear line of sight.
Safe roads require a collective commitment. As drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and passengers, we all share the responsibility of creating safer communities. During the holidays, this means recognizing the heightened risks and making conscious choices to protect ourselves and others.
For some, these measures may seem inconvenient or unnecessary -- until tragedy strikes. An empty chair at the holiday table is too high a price to pay for a moment of distraction or poor judgment.
This holiday season, let's make safety a priority. Together, we can reduce the number of accidents, save lives and ensure that fewer families experience the pain of an empty seat at their gatherings. The joy of arriving home safely is a gift we can all give and receive.