batavia police

Press Release:

As the winter season is upon us, the Batavia Police Department wants to remind all drivers to brush up on their winter driving habits and skills to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 

Winter driving can be hazardous, especially for those who are not prepared. The combination of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can make roads slippery and unpredictable. However, by following some simple tips and guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a winter-related accident. 

Before You Hit the Road: 

• Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready by checking the battery, antifreeze, and tire pressure. 
• Keep an emergency kit in your car, including items such as a flashlight, first aid kit, and warm blankets. 
• Plan your route in advance and check the weather forecast to avoid traveling during hazardous conditions. 

Safe Driving Practices: 

• Slow down and increase your following distance to account for reduced visibility and traction. 
• Use low gear when driving uphill to maintain control and avoid wheelspin. 
• Avoid sudden turns or braking, as this can cause your vehicle to lose traction. 
• Keep a safe distance from snowplows and salt trucks, as they may throw up debris or create slippery conditions. 

Additional Tips: 

• Keep your gas tank at least half full. 
• Use winter tires or snow chains if necessary, and make sure they are properly installed. 
• Keep your windshield and windows clean and clear of snow and ice to maintain good visibility. 

By following these simple tips and guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a winter-related accident. Remember to always drive defensively and be prepared for the unexpected. Stay safe on the roads this winter! If you have any questions or concerns about winter driving, please contact the Batavia Police Department. Stay safe, and happy driving!

Press Release:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging drivers to buckle up ahead of a national Click It or Ticket high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort. 

The national seat belt campaign, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, runs from May 20 to June 2, 2024. 

“We want seat belt use to be an automatic habit for drivers and passengers alike,” said Assistant Police Chief Chris Camp. “It’s not just a safe thing to do — it’s the law. During the Click It or Ticket campaign, we’ll be working with our fellow law enforcement officers across local and state lines to ensure the message gets out to drivers and passengers. Buckling up is the simplest thing you can do to limit injury or save your life during a crash. We see the results of not wearing a seat belt all the time. We see the loss of life. So often, it could have been prevented.”

The national seat belt use rate in 2023 was 91.9%, which is good — but it can be better. The other 8.1% still need to be reminded that seat belts save lives. Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, writing citations day and night.  

One of the focuses of the Click It or Ticket campaign is nighttime enforcement. NHTSA data shows a higher number of unrestrained passenger vehicle occupant fatalities happen at night. Also, seat belt use differs among females and males. Of the males killed in crashes in 2021, more than half (54%) were unrestrained. For females killed in crashes, 42% were not buckled up.  

“If the enforcement effort alerts people to the dangers of unrestrained driving, we’ll consider our mission to be a success,” said Assistant Police Chief Chris Camp. “If you know a friend or a family member who does not buckle up when they drive, please ask them to consider changing their habits. Help us spread this lifesaving message before one more friend or family member is killed as a result of this senseless inaction. Seat belts save lives, and everyone — front seat and back, child and adult — needs to remember to buckle up.”  

For more information on the Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement mobilization, please visit NHTSA.gov/ClickIt.