OIL CITY — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Highway Safety Network, and the Pennsylvania DUI Association collaborated to remind everyone to drive sober and watch for pedestrians and motorcycles in advance of Labor Day celebrations.

A statewide enforcement mobilization began Aug. 13 and extends through Labor Day. During this time, both state and local law enforcement agencies are participating in activities aimed at keeping impaired drivers off the road.

According to PennDOT data, there were 1,002 crashes statewide last year from Aug. 30 to Sept. 2, which resulted in 13 fatalities and 722 injuries. Of these crashes, 133 involved drug or alcohol usage, resulting in seven fatalities and 87 injuries.

“The effects of impairment can begin the moment you start to consume drugs or alcohol. Even in small doses, these substances can negatively affect a person’s coordination, judgment and reaction times.” said Maggie Nunley, a Regional Program Administrator with the Pennsylvania DUI Association. “Getting behind the wheel while under the influence is never the right choice. Through smarter decision making and proper planning, you have the power to potentially save a life.”

Safe alternatives to impaired driving include using a ride-sharing service, appointing a designated driver that is completely sober, using public transportation or spending the night at the location, if possible.

“Impaired driving not only affects other drivers but puts vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, in harm’s way,” said Mike Tautin, a Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator with the Highway Safety Network. “If pedestrians and motorists can each do their part, together we can create safer roads for all.”

PennDOT offers these safety tips for pedestrians and motorists:

• When a pedestrian crosses the street in a crosswalk, the driver must yield.
• If a pedestrian crosses the street not at an intersection and there is no crosswalk, the pedestrian must yield to vehicles.
• When crossing the street at a signalized intersection, both pedestrians and motorists must obey the traffic control devices.
• Pedestrians should wear bright, reflective clothing to remain visible to motorists and look both ways before crossing the street.
• When walking along the road where no sidewalk is provided, pedestrians should walk against traffic so they can see vehicles approaching.
• Both pedestrians and motorists should eliminate all distractions to maintain situational awareness.
• Motorists should always travel at a safe speed and slow down when approaching crosswalks or intersections.