U.S. Virgin Islands – The VI Police Department (VIPD)/Office of Highway Safety (VIOHS)
will join the community in observing Buckle Up Phone Down Day on October 29th. This
national observation is supported by the Honorable Governor Albert Bryan Jr. through
proclamation.
Correctly and consistently wearing a safety restraint is proven to be the best defense for crash
victims. However, in 2024, local drivers and their front seat passengers were observed to be
wearing seat belts 71.0% of the time. When compared to the nation’s compliance rate of
91.2%, the territory’s risk-taking safety culture is exposed. During the same period,
approximately 2,151 crashes recorded locally could be attributed to distracted driving.
Crashes involving distracted drivers and unrestrained occupants resulted in over 678 injuries
and 5 fatalities in 2024.
“The choices we make on the roadways matter,” stated VIOHS Director Daphne O’Neal.
“Driving focused and riding restrained are basic choices that reduce risks for unnecessary
crashes, injuries and fatalities. Our lives and the lives of other road users depend heavily on
the decisions we make behind the wheel.”
For more safe driving practices or information regarding Buckle Up, Phone Down Day,
contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director O’Neal at
daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, Impaired Driving Program Manager K’Tonya Petrus at
k’tonya.petrus@vipd.vi.gov, or Occupant Protection Program Manager Denise Gomes at
denise.gomes@vipd.vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025
or (340) 473-7383
