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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
7/20/2022
Contact: Motor Vehicle Administration
Office of Media Relations
Anna Levendusky, 410-787-4077

MDOT, Law Enforcement and Traffic Officials to Host Crash Demonstration to Highlight Importance of Seat Belt Use

New child passenger safety law takes effect October 1, requiring children to remain rear facing until age 2

WHAT:         The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), Baltimore County Police Department, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are partnering to organize a simulated crash to demonstrate how the dangers of being unbuckled – even at lower speeds – can cause severe injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash. A press event will be held ahead of the crash demonstrations to discuss common causes of crashes, the implementation of a new child passenger safety law and the danger of leaving children and pets in vehicles unattended.

WHEN:         Tuesday, July 26, 202210:30 a.m.*Media may arrive at 10 a.m. to set up cameras within vehicles and around the crash zones.*

WHERE:      Martin State Airport701 Wilson Point Road,Middle River, MD 21220*Media must RSVP to gain access to the airport.*

WHO:            James F. Ports, Jr., Secretary, MDOTChrissy Nizer, Administrator, MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration and Governor Larry Hogan’s Highway Safety RepresentativeColonel Kevin M. Anderson, Chief, Maryland Transportation Authority PoliceDr. Thomas M. Scalea, Physician-in-Chief, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center

VISUALS:    Two cars will crash into a jersey barrier, both at 35 miles per hour.Internal footage of unbuckled and buckled occupants within vehicles will be possible.One-on-one interviews will be available with all speakers.

WHY:            In 2021, 562 people died on Maryland roadways. Police reports show increased speed, instances of impairment and lower seat belt use as the most common contributing factors in motor vehicle fatalities. Learn more about the MDOT MVA’s Highway Safety Office at ZeroDeathsMD.gov or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @ZeroDeathsMD.

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