If you drive you probably are always alert to make sure you don't get into a crash. However some crashes you can't avoid. Many drivers lose their lives every year in vehicle crashes. In fact road deaths in Washington State reached a 20-year high in 2021. Information from the Washington State Patrol says 663 fatality crashes last year and they say the trend continues this year. It's why the Washington Traffic Safety Commission is launching one of its largest public education campaigns in its history this summer called "Together We Get There."

"The increase in deaths on our roads is tragic, but we all have the power to reverse the trend," says Mark McKechnie, Director, External Relations for WTSC. “We can turn the tide and make this a safe summer. Most of us use roads safely, and we can also influence the smaller number of people who engage in risky behavior. Take an extra step and help someone close to you be safe, too. It’s as simple as reminding them to buckle their seat belt or put their phone away when they drive."

A press release from WTSC says the “Together We Get There” summer ad campaign promotes a community-based approach, known as “proactive traffic safety,” an evidence-based approach developed using the Positive Culture Framework created by Montana State University’s Center for Health and Safety Culture. State officials the campaign is happening during the summer months June through August, three months which historically see higher traffic deaths than other times of the year. “Research shows that reinforcing safe behavior with someone you know can influence them to change,” says McKechnie. “Community involvement and a willingness to encourage others to be safe will save lives on our roads.” The traffic safety commission officials say historically, traffic safety campaigns focused solely on individuals engaging in risky behaviors, primarily through enforcement. Community-based traffic safety culture enlists the support of the majority of safe road users to effectively encourage others to be safe.