Tonight, the year of 2008 comes to a close.
Most will be glad to see it pass.
As always, the end of a year is a time for reflection.
We hope that for everybody there was more “good” than there was “bad.”
So, tonight, however you choose to celebrate, please do it responsibly so that you will be here to enjoy 2009.
If you choose to drink, we urge you not to drive. Have a designated driver or have plans to not drive at all if that’s possible.
And if you are on the road, be sure to wear your seat belt.
So far this year, of the 658 motor vehicle operators who were killed in traffic accidents, 414 were not wearing seat belts.
Of course, they aren’t all alcohol related, but the latest report from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety shows traffic fatalities are up in several Pee Dee counties.
Through Dec. 28, preliminary figures show that in Florence County, 43 people have died in wrecks compared with 28 during the same period last year.
Chesterfield has had 17 deaths so far this year, compared with seven last year.
Darlington County has 23 deaths so far this year compared with 23 at the same time last year.
Marion is down slightly with 13 killed, compared with 15 last year.
In Marlboro County, the number is seven this year compared with 10 last year.
And Williamsburg County has had nine people killed compared with 15 people last year.
One death is too many.
The highway patrol and all local law enforcement agencies have and will be out in full force during the holidays.
Don’t end up in jail or don’t be a statistic.
Also, if you choose to celebrate using fireworks, please use common sense and follow safety precautions.
And also be considerate of your neighbors.
Keep in mind that it’s against the law in most city limits to use fireworks.
Let’s hope we can end the holidays with as few injuries or deaths as possible.
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