What is love? Poets, philosophers, theologians and many others have been trying to define it for millennia. The easy answer is, “it’s complicated,” and so is the way we express it. Valentine’s Day, particularly in its commercial form, has become a day of flowers, chocolates and greeting cards full of flowery or humorous sentiments.
While most of us enjoy gifts and sentiments, love also means showing you care. To me, there’s no better place to start than with your own behind-the-wheel behavior and ensuring your passengers are safe every time they get in a vehicle – it’s easy, it doesn’t cost anything and the rewards are priceless.
Consider the consequences of doing otherwise. This month, the families of the 470 people who died in crashes on Minnesota roadways in 2024 – up 17% over 2023 – will mark Valentine’s Day with broken hearts knowing their loved ones are gone forever.
Take the opportunity this Valentine’s Day to spread the love and the message. Start by making sure you’re doing it right every time you get behind the wheel – buckle up, you’re your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel and your mind on driving. And NEVER drive while impaired. Share that message with your loved ones (How about a heart-shaped dashboard note?). And if you want to spread the word further, the team at Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths has great Valentine’s Day campaign materials you can use including cards, posters, social media graphics and even a craft for school-age children.
What is love? It’s making sure you and your loved ones return home safely on Valentine’s Day and every day.
Yours in traffic safety,
Lisa Kons
Minnesota NETS Coordinator
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