State Patrol steps up patrols for Watershed at Gorge

The Washington State Patrol issued this press release

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is reminding Watershed concert goers to be safe while having fun this weekend. WSP will be allocating additional resources along the I-90 corridor to focus on the large influx of traffic expected over the weekend. Troopers will be focusing on impaired, aggressive and distracted drivers in an effort to prevent any serious injury or fatality collisions.  WSP urges attendees to arrange for a sober ride prior to arriving at the venue.

Washington law now prohibits the hand held use of any electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Phones must be mounted or stored for safe vehicle operation. Distracted driving is the leading cause of traffic fatalities among teen drivers and is quickly becoming a leading cause of all fatality collisions.

Troopers will also be focusing on unrestrained occupants. Seat belts save lives. Drivers are reminded that all seats are required to be occupied prior to allowing any passengers to ride in the bed of their trucks. Allowing passengers to ride in the bed of trucks is an unsafe practice and highly discouraged. It is illegal to allow anyone under 16 to ride in the bed of a truck.

Motorists should expect lengthy delays along I-90 near Vantage and over Snoqualmie Pass Friday through Sunday.  Temperatures will be near 100 degrees all weekend. Drivers are reminded to keep ample water in your vehicle in case of delays and make sure your vehicle is in proper working condition, with appropriate coolant levels and good tires appropriate for the Eastern Washington heat.