The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), in partnership with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) and Louisiana State Police (LSP), announces the launch of the website, Destination Zero Deaths: Whatever It Takes, www.destinationzerodeaths.com.

The Destination Zero Deaths website is an interactive component of Louisiana’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan, which outlines the many ways state, regional and local safety coalitions can become involved in reducing the number of motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries on Louisiana’s roadways.

"Safety is a top priority for our Department, and we are constantly looking to improve and enhance our roadways through the installation of various safety features, including rumble strips, roundabouts and cable median barriers," said DOTD Secretary Sherri H. LeBas. "We have also initiated a new Road Safety Assessment program to identify low-cost safety enhancements that can be made to roads already scheduled for overlay work," added LeBas.

"Louisiana continues to be among states having the highest fatality rates in the nation," said LHSC Executive Director Lt. Col. John LeBlanc. "It is our hope that the Destination Zero Deaths website will be an informative and engaging tool to promote driver safety and move Louisiana toward zero deaths on our roadways."

"Statistics show that almost half of all fatal crashes involve alcohol, and Louisiana falls below the national average in seatbelt use. Sadly, both of these are preventable. Whether it is discouraging drinking and driving, promoting seatbelt use or educating young drivers, everyone has a role to play in encouraging safe driving practices. Public safety agencies and the public must work as partners to change the culture of acceptance in Louisiana," said Colonel Mike Edmonson, State Police Superintendent.

The site features information on preventing alcohol-impaired driving, educating young drivers, promoting occupant protection (seat belts) and ways DOTD is improving highway infrastructure and operations. Visitors can also view upcoming safety events and meetings, news clips related to safety and public service announcements encouraging safe driving.

Although mainly targeted toward safety coalitions, Louisiana motorists are also encouraged to visit Destination Zero Deaths for more information on motor safety. Users have the option of sending an e-card as an interactive, fun way to encourage friends to use seatbelts and practice responsible driving. The site also features an interactive "Remember a Loved One" memorial page where visitors may submit their memories of friends or loved ones who were victims of vehicle-related fatalities or injuries.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is committed to delivering transportation and public works systems that enhance the quality of life. In addition to more than 16,600 miles of roadway, including over 890 miles of interstate, DOTD supports the development of the state’s aviation, marine and rail infrastructures. Through this work, we are able to facilitate economic development, create job opportunities, improve vital evacuation routes, and make critical freight corridors safer and more efficient.

For more information, please visit www.dotd.la.gov, email dotdcs@la.gov, or call DOTD’s Customer Service Center at (225) 379-1232 or 1-877-4LADOTD (1-877-452-3683). Business hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Motorists can access up-to-date travel information by dialing 511 or by visiting www.511la.org. Out of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).

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www.dotd.la.gov