Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer and Virginia coach Mike London put their rivalries aside in order to team up with the Virginia State Police for a traffic safety public service announcement.
The message: whether you root for the Hokies or the ‘Hoos, or have your own favorite college football team to cheer on during this Saturday’s major matchups, nothing rivals the importance of all fans driving to save lives over the Thanksgiving weekend.
The video, produced in partnership with Advance Auto Parts headquartered in Roanoke, Va., aims to reach young adult drivers who are most at risk for traffic crashes, injuries and deaths on Virginia highways. Last year in Virginia, 123 male and female drivers and passengers between the ages of 18 and 25 lost their lives in a traffic crash.
In 2014, there were 10,220 drivers and 2,815 passengers between ages 18 and 25 injured in traffic crashes statewide.
“We need all drivers to have a game plan before they leave for and from game day festivities,” said Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “First and foremost, never drink and drive. Buzzed driving is drunk driving and puts you and all motorists at risk. Play bad and the greatest thing you risk is losing a game. Drive impaired, distracted, unbuckled, and/or recklessly and the greatest thing you risk is losing your life or taking someone else’s. Reducing traffic fatalities on Virginia’s highways is a score we can live with.”
Drivers are also reminded to maintain your vehicle, use caution at railroad crossings, and comply with the state’s “Move Over” law to protect first responders and highway safety workers.
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Chris Graham
