U.S. Virgin Islands – The Virgin Islands Police Department/Office of Highway Safety (VIPD/OHS) encourages residents and visitors to celebrate Virgin Islands–Puerto Rican Friendship Day on October 12th with pride, fellowship, and a commitment to keeping our roads safe. Before getting behind the wheel, make choices that protect you, your loved ones, and everyone sharing the road. As you celebrate, keep these safety reminders in mind:
- Drive Sober. If you plan to drink or use an impairing substance, arrange a sober ride before you go.
- Stay Focused. Put the phone down; avoid texting, scrolling, or other distractions while driving.
- Get Enough Rest. Drowsy driving can reduce alertness, slow reaction time, and affect decision-making.
- Buckle Up. Every driver and passenger should wear an appropriate restraint on every trip.
- Slow Down and Stay Alert. Expect increased traffic, pedestrians, and increased activity around celebration areas.
- Look Out for Each Other. Never allow an impaired or overly tired friend or family member behind the wheel.
Celebrate the friendship. Celebrate the culture. But don’t let impaired, distracted, or drowsy driving become part of the celebration.
Happy Virgin Islands–Puerto Rican Friendship Day from the VIPD/OHS team!
For more information about the If You Feel Different, You Drive Different campaign, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. To request a traffic safety presentation or learn more about impaired driving prevention, 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 k’tonya.petrus@vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025 ext.6126.
