U.S. Virgin Islands - The Honorable Governor Albert Bryan, Jr. joined the VI Police Department (VIPD) and the VI Office of Highway Safety (VIOHS) in supporting safe driving by proclaiming Friday, October 27, 2023, Buckle Up, Phone Down (BUPD) Day in the territory. Districts throughout the nation also recognized BUPD Day during the week.

In the territory, approximately 1,750 crashes in 2022 could be attributed to distracted driving. These crashes resulted in 124 injuries and 2 deaths. Correctly and consistently wearing a seat belt is proven to be the best defense for crash victims. However, in 2022, in the territory, drivers and their front seat passengers were observed wearing seat belts 67.0% of the time, which is drastically lower than the nation’s compliance rate of 91.6%. In 2022, unrestrained occupants comprised half of the crash fatalities recorded.

“Traffic safety is a choice,” explained VIOHS Director Daphne O’Neal. “Making a conscious and consistent choice to buckle up and to drive without distractions drastically reduces risks for crash-related injuries and fatalities for yourself, your passengers, and for all who share our roads.”

For more safe driving practices and information regarding Buckle Up, Phone Down Day, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov or Occupant Protection Planner/Coordinator Denise Gomes at denise.gomes@vipd.vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025 or (340) 473-7383.