Whereas, 44,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes in our nation in 2002 and an estimated 11,500 of these victims were teens and young adults; and,

Whereas, Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people at work with 2,200 people dying in 2002; and,

Whereas, Several behaviors are known to cause crashes, including alcohol use, speeding, aggressive driving, failure to yield, drowsy driving, and distracted driving; and,

Whereas, Even with advancements in safety that create a safer environment for the people of the United States, such as new legislation and improvements in technology, the unintentional-injury death toll is still unacceptable; and,

Whereas, Citizens deserve a solution to nationwide safety and health threats and such a solution requires the cooperation of all levels of government, as well as the general public; and,

Whereas, The mission of the National Safety Council is to educate and influence society to adopt safety, health, and environmental policies, practices, and procedures that prevent and mitigate human suffering and economic losses arising from preventable causes; and,

Whereas, The theme of National Safety Month 2004 is “Crash-Free June,” a national initiative designed to reduce motor vehicle crashes; and now therefore be it,