U.S. Virgin Islands – As families and friends head to beaches, backyard BBQs, and holiday celebrations this Memorial Day weekend, the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety (VIOHS) is reminding everyone to make safety their top priority — both on and off the road. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and while it’s a time for fun and relaxation, it’s also one of the busiest and most dangerous travel weekends of the year. Whether you’re hitting the beach, grilling in the backyard, or heading to a holiday gathering, please remember to drive sober, stay alert, and watch your speed.
Key Safety Tips for Memorial Day Travelers:
- Drive Sober: Never drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs. Plan ahead by designating a sober driver or arranging a safe way home.
- Avoid Distractions: Put the phone down and focus on the road. Whether you’re texting, scrolling, or even eating. Taking your eyes off the road for just a few seconds can lead to a serious crash.
- Stay Alert: Don’t drive drowsy. Late nights at BBQs or long days at the beach can lead to fatigue. Take breaks, switch drivers, or find a safe place to rest if you’re feeling sleepy.
- Watch Your Speed: Speeding reduces your ability to react and increases the severity of crashes. Obey speed limits, especially in neighborhoods, near beaches, and on unfamiliar roads.
- Protect Pedestrians: Be extra cautious in beach areas, neighborhoods, and crosswalks. Slow down, yield to pedestrians, and avoid distractions. If you’re walking, stay alert and cross at designated areas.
“Memorial Day weekend should be a time to relax and celebrate, not a time to grieve a tragic loss,” said VIOHS DirectorDaphne O’Neal. “We’re asking everyone to make smart choices —whether you’re behind the wheel, on foot, or on a motorcycle or bicycle — so we can all have a safe and memorable holiday weekend.”
Let’s work together to keep our roads, beaches, and neighborhoods safe. Buckle up, slow down, and make smart choices — Because Every Life Matters.
If You Feel Different, You Drive Different
For more information and resources on safe driving, visit NHTSA’s risky driving website or VIOHS website. To request a traffic safety presentation, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or the Impaired Driving Program Manager, K’ Tonya Petrus at ktonya.petrus@vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 513-5291 or (340) 772-3025.
