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Governor Bill Richardson NMDOT Cabinet Secretary Gary L. J. Girón Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Transportation Commission District One - John Hummer District Two - Johnny Cope District Three – Doug Peterson District Four - Jim Franken District Five – Roman Maes III District Six – Jackson Gibson Acknowledgments The NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau would like to thank Governor Bill Richardson, DWI Czar Rachel O’Connor, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Federal Highway Administration, local officials and coordinators, law enforcement and other partner organizations for their support of TSB programs and initiatives during the past year. These partnerships are vital to our success in reducing fatalities and injuries on New Mexico’s roads, streets and highways. Thanks to Traffic Safety partners, TSB contractors and Staff for providing information for the FY2010 NMDOT/ TSB Annual Report. Editor: Ilene Hall, Pricehall Research, Inc. 2 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Table of Contents Executive Summary ........................................................................................4   Mission Statement ..........................................................................................6   Vision Statement.............................................................................................6   Introduction .....................................................................................................6   Legislative Issues ...........................................................................................7   Traffic Safety Planning Participants and Partners.......................................8   2010 HSPP Performance Measures...............................................................9   Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Program Area....................................................12  Occupant Protection Program Area ............................................................25  Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Program Area ..........................................30  Police Traffic Services Program Area .........................................................33  Traffic Records Program Area .....................................................................37  Motorcycle Safety Program Area.................................................................41  Planning and Administration Program Area ..............................................43  Driver Education and Safety Program Area ...............................................44   TS Programs Marketing and Media Program Area ....................................47  FY10 NHTSA Grant Funds............................................................................51  Staff Contact Information .............................................................................52  3 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Executive Summary New Mexico achieved 11 of its 15 FY10 Highway Safety and Performance Plan (HSPP) performance measures. Two of the four measures not achieved still evidenced reductions in serious injuries or fatalities from the previous year. In addition, although observed seat belt use fell slightly, New Mexico has been successful in keeping its observed seat belt use percentage at between 90 and 92 percent over the past five years. TSB programs such as Operation DWI (ODWI), Operation Buckle Down (OBD), 100 Days and Nights of Summer, Safety Corridors and STEPs, and National programs such as Click It or Ticket and the National Impaired Driving Crackdown contributed greatly to reducing traffic-related crashes, fatalities and deaths in 2010. These programs were enhanced by the State’s high-visibility traffic safety media and marketing campaign that kept the public aware of the high level of enforcement efforts. In addition, TSB’s prevention, education and public information programs worked in conjunction with enforcement operations to save lives and decrease injuries in the State. Overall Performance Measures NMDOT achieved two of its four Overall FY10 HSPP performance measures. In New Mexico, crash fatalities have decreased by 26 percent overall since 2005. Rural fatalities have decreased by 27 percent, while urban traffic fatalities have decreased by 23 percent. Although New Mexico did not achieve its performance measure for reducing drivers under age 21 in fatal crashes by the amount projected, this figure has been reduced by 30 percent since 2005. In FY10, New Mexico continued its high-visibility enforcement efforts including its Superblitz DWI and OBD campaigns, 100 Days and Nights of Summer traffic safety campaign and Safety Corridors. As a result of TSB’s targeted enforcement and prevention programs, fatalities have been reduced among the driving and riding public. Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Performance Measure NMDOT achieved its FY10 HSPP Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Program performance measure. The number of alcohol-related fatalities in New Mexico has decreased by 23 percent since 2005. New Mexico’s continuing commitment to high-visibility enforcement, keeping the message and the law enforcement officer in front of the public, and its prevention and training projects have paid off in increased numbers of lives saved. Occupant Protection Performance Measures NMDOT achieved one of its two FY10 HSPP Occupant Protection Program performance measures. The number of unrestrained occupant fatalities was reduced by 24 percent between 2007 and 2009. New Mexico has been successful in keeping its observed seat belt use percentage steady over the past five years. Driver seat belt use was recorded at 90.8 percent. Front seat passenger use (persons sitting by the right door) was recorded at 86.4 percent. New Mexico’s seat belt use continues to be above the national percentage, as it has for many years. In 2009, NM ranked 14th among states. Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Performance Measure NMDOT achieved its FY10 HSPP Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Program performance measure. The number of pedestrian fatalities was reduced by 43 percent between 2006 and 2009. 4 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Sustained efforts were made to raise awareness and to educate New Mexico community planners and leaders on pedestrian safety issues. In FY10, these efforts had a very positive effect. Police Traffic Services Performance Measure NMDOT achieved its FY10 HSPP Police Traffic Services Program performance measure. Since 2006, speeding-related fatalities have been reduced by 60 percent. Both the Safety Corridor program and the highly successful 100 Days and Nights of Summer campaign have helped to reduce speedingrelated fatalities in New Mexico. Traffic Records Performance Measure NMDOT did not achieve its FY10 HSPP Traffic Records Program performance measure of increasing timeliness in the crash database by the projected amount, however overall timeliness in the crash database was improved by 17 percent. Motorcycle Safety Performance Measures NMDOT achieved both of its FY10 HSPP Motorcycle Safety Program performance measures. Motorcyclist fatalities decreased by 20 percent between 2007 and 2009. In addition, despite a spike in 2008, there was a 17 percent reduction in unhelmeted fatalities between 2008 and 2009. New Mexico’s emphasis on motorcycle safety and awareness is resulting in fewer fatalities despite the increasing number of motorcycles on the highways. Planning and Administration Performance Measures All three FY10 Planning and Administration performance measures were achieved. The annual Highway Safety and Performance Plan and grant applications under SAFETEA-LU were completed and submitted to NHTSA. All grant applications were funded. Reimbursement claims were paid within 30 days and draw-downs were submitted on time. 5 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 NMDOT/ Traffic Safety Bureau Mission Statement The Traffic Safety Bureau is committed to preventing injuries and saving lives by eliminating crashes on New Mexico public roadways. ¡ si se puede ! Vision Statement The New Mexico Department of Transportation - Traffic Safety Bureau takes pride as the national leader in the elimination of traffic related crashes for the safety of our friends, families and visitors in the great Land of Enchantment. Introduction During the past year, NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau (TSB) programs reached New Mexicans from every geographic area of the State, and from every age and ethnic group. Through its media campaigns that encourage safe, sober driving to its high-visibility enforcement programs that remind drivers: ‘Over the Limit, Under Arrest;’ ‘You Drink, You Drive, You Lose!’ ‘Click It or Ticket,’ and ‘Click. Don’t Splat.’ the TSB supports programs that are designed to make New Mexicans safer. TSB funds prevention and education activities in the areas of impaired driving, occupant protection, pedestrian and bicycle safety, driver education and motorcycle safety. Training programs provide opportunities for all age groups to improve their driving skills whether in an automobile, on a motorcycle or on a bicycle. TSB and its statewide safety partners work diligently to positively impact the lives of all New Mexicans. TSB’s top priorities for funding in FY2010 were in the Impaired Driving, Traffic Records and Occupant Protection Programs. Along with these high priority areas, TSB funded projects in the Police Traffic Services, Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety, Traffic Safety Marketing and Media, Motorcycle Safety, and Driver Education and Safety Programs. The TSB also provided funding to a variety of organizations to support its traffic safety objectives including State agencies, nonprofit corporations, private contractors and other experts in records, statistics, public information, health and the judicial system. Each funded organization has a specific role in assisting TSB with reducing traffic-related crashes, deaths and injuries. In FY10, the NMDOT/ TSB applied for and received funding under the Federal SAFETEA-LU Program for the following grants:  Section 402 - HSPP  Section 405 – Occupant Protection  Section 408 – State Traffic Safety Information System Improvement  Section 410 – Alcohol Impaired Driving Countermeasure  Section 2010 – Motorcycle Safety 6 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Legislative Issues 2010 Highlights House Bill 207 – Changes to the Interlock Device Fund Section 1. Section 66-8-102 NMSA 1978 Eligibility for the interlock device fund will now be determined by the NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau (TSB). Provided that money is available in the interlock device fund, TSB shall pay, for one vehicle per offender, up to $50.00 for the cost of installation, up to $50.00 for the cost of removal and up to $30.00 monthly for verified active usage of the interlock device. TSB shall not pay any amount above what an offender would be required to pay for the installation, removal or usage of an interlock device. Indigency shall be determined by TSB based on proof of enrollment in one or more of the following types of public assistance: (1) temporary assistance for needy families; (2) general assistance; (3) the supplemental nutritional assistance program (food stamps); (4) supplemental security income; (5) the Federal food distribution program on Indian reservations; or (6) other criteria approved by TSB. Effective date: July 1, 2010. Senate Bill 32 – Fee Increase for Cost of Chemical and Other Tests Section 1. Section 31-12-7 NMSA 1978 In addition to any other court costs or fines, a person who has been convicted of a DWI will be assessed: A. a fee of $85.00 to defray the costs of chemical and other tests used to determine the influence of liquor or drugs; and B. a fee of $75.00 to fund comprehensive community programs for the prevention of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs and for other traffic safety purposes. Effective date: July 1, 2010. DWI DAY In January, at the State Legislature more than 300 Santa Fe teenagers gathered at the Rotunda to commemorate the loss of four friends killed by a drunk driver last June and to ask legislators to pass bills dealing with DWI penalties and fines, plea agreements, and refusal of chemical tests - all part of Governor Bill Richardson’s DWI Crime Package. Anti-DWI organizations distributed information and DWI Czar Rachel O’Connor, New Mexico State Senator Ken Cravens and other dignitaries spoke on the perils of drunk driving in New Mexico. 7 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Traffic Safety Planning Participants and Partners AAA Administrative Office of the Courts Albuquerque Metropolitan Court Bureau of Indian Affairs and Various Tribes DWI Leadership Team Federal Highway Administration Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Metropolitan Planning Organizations Mothers Against Drunk Driving Motorcycle Safety Foundation NHTSA Region 6 New Mexico Broadcasters Association New Mexico Department of Education New Mexico Dept. of Finance & Administration - Local Program Division DWI Program New Mexico Department of Health Injury Epidemiology Unit Scientific Laboratory Division Injury Prevention and EMS Bureau New Mexico Department of Public Safety State Police Motor Transportation Division Special Investigations Division New Mexico Department of Transportation New Mexico Law Enforcement Agencies New Mexico Restaurant Association New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department – Alcohol and Gaming Division New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department - Motor Vehicle Division Statewide Traffic Records Executive Oversight Committee Statewide Traffic Records Coordinating Committee University of New Mexico Division of Government Research Institute of Public Law/ Judicial Education Center Department of Emergency Medicine Continuing Ed./Community Services Various City & County Governments 8 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 2010 Highway Safety and Performance Plan Performance Measures New Mexico's 2010 HSPP Goal Reduce the number of traffic-related crashes, fatalities and serious injuries in New Mexico. Overall Performance Measures based on Annual Data January 1, 2009 – December 31, 2009 1) Reduce the number of traffic fatalities from 413 in 2007 to 375 by 2010 (C-1; FARS Data). C- 1 Rural & Urban T raffic Fatalities 400 353 363 350 302 265 300 258 Rural 250 200 134 150 120 111 101 103 100 Urban 50 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 STATUS: Achieved and Exceeded Final 2009 data show that the number of traffic fatalities was reported at 361. 2) Reduce the number of serious injuries in traffic crashes from 1,884 in 2007 to 1,800 by 2010 (C-2; NM Crash Data Files). C-2 Serious Injuries in Crashes 3,000 2,563 2,500 2,058 1,884 1,911 1,899 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 STATUS: Not Achieved Final 2009 data show that the number of serious injuries was reported at 1,899. 9 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 3) Reduce traffic fatalities per 100 MVM from 1.54 in 2007 to 1.48 by 2010 (C-3; FARS, FHWA Data). C-3 Fatalities per 100 million Vehicle Miles 2.50 2.04 2.00 1.88 1.54 1.38 1.38 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 STATUS: Achieved and Exceeded Final 2009 data show that the fatality rate per 100 MVM was reported at 1.38. 4) Reduce the number of drivers age 20 or younger involved in fatal crashes from 61 in 2007 to 50 by 2010 (C-9; FARS Data). C-9 Drivers Under 21 in Fatal Crashes 90 79 80 71 70 61 57 55 2008 2009 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 2005 2006 2007 STATUS: Not Achieved Final 2009 data show that the number of drivers under 21 in fatal crashes was reported at 55. Achievement of Performance Measures NMDOT achieved two of its four Overall FY10 HSPP performance measures. In New Mexico, crash fatalities have decreased by 26 percent overall since 2005. Rural fatalities have decreased by 27 percent, while urban traffic fatalities have decreased by 23 percent. Although New Mexico did not reach its performance measure for reducing the number of drivers under age 21 in fatal crashes by the amount projected, this figure has been reduced by 30 percent since 2005. 10 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 In FY10, New Mexico continued its high-visibility enforcement efforts including its Superblitz DWI and OBD campaigns, 100 Days and Nights of Summer traffic safety campaign and Safety Corridors. As a result of TSB’s targeted enforcement and prevention programs, fatalities have been reduced among the driving and riding public. Activity Measures (October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010) Number of grant-funded impaired driving arrests – FFY10 = 2,610 (A-1; From Safer NM Now) Number of grant-funded seat belt citations – FFY10 = 14,485 (A-2; From Safer NM Now) Number of grant-funded speeding citations – FFY10 = 48,405 (A-3; From Safer NM Now) The Program Area sections presented below provide specific details on progress toward achieving program-specific performance measures and on the projects conducted in FY10 aimed at positively impacting those measures. 11 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Program Area Program Administration The Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Program is administered by TSB Staff. Individual projects are managed by TSB Staff, various law enforcement agencies, Safer New Mexico Now, UNM Institute of Public Law, Department of Public Safety, T.A.C.T. & Associates, Inc., UNM Division of Government Research, NMDOH Scientific Lab Division and local community agencies. Projects – Federal and State Funds Enforcement Projects included: ODWI (including Superblitz), the NHTSA National Impaired Driving Crackdown and 100 Days and Nights of Summer. Training and Education Projects included: Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor, DWI Training for Law Enforcement, DRE Training, DWI Judicial and Prosecutor Education, Traffic Safety Reporting and Information, and BAC Testing and Training. Underage Drinking Prevention Projects included: Life of an Athlete and Social Host Ordinance Awareness. Other Projects included: DWI/ Drug Courts, Court Monitoring, Liquor Control Act Assistance, DWI Enforcement Task Force-McKinley County, CDWI, Metro Court Supervised Probation Project, DWI Prosecution in Practice, Drunk Busters Hotline and Ignition Interlock. Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Performance Measure based on Annual Data January 1, 2009 – December 31, 2009 5) Reduce the number of fatalities involving driver/ motorcycle operators with .08 or higher BAC from 132 in 2007 to 120 by 2010 (C-5; FARS Data). C-5 Fatalities Involving Alcohol-impaired Drivers 160 149 136 132 140 105 114 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 STATUS: Achieved and Exceeded Final 2009 data show that the number of fatalities involving driver/ motorcycle operators with .08 or higher BAC was reported at 114. 12 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Achievement of Performance Measure NMDOT achieved its FY10 HSPP Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Program performance measure. The number of alcohol-related fatalities in New Mexico has decreased by 23 percent since 2005. New Mexico’s continuing commitment to high-visibility enforcement, keeping the message and the law enforcement officer in front of the public, and its prevention and training projects have paid off in increased numbers of lives saved. The following FY10 Alcohol/ Impaired Driving Program projects produced positive results that assisted TSB in attaining its performance measures and in positively impacting the safety of New Mexico’s citizens. ALCOHOL/ IMPAIRED DRIVING PROGRAM DWI ENFORCEMENT PROJECTS ODWI Enforcement, Special DWI Enforcement and Sustained Enforcement Activities NMDOT funds contracts for law enforcement to participate in Operation DWI (ODWI), special DWI enforcement operations and sustained enforcement activities.  The primary objective of ODWI enforcement is to cite and educate those who fail to comply with New Mexico’s DWI laws.  Special DWI enforcement focuses on participation by law enforcement in operations such as the annual NHTSA National Impaired Driving Crackdown, Superblitz and 100 Days and Nights of Summer. Superblitz operations combine statewide ODWI enforcement activities with occupant protection enforcement (Operation Buckle Down).  Sustained enforcement activities include checkpoint and saturation patrol operations that are conducted throughout the year. In support of NHTSA national traffic safety objectives, sustained enforcement activities focus not only on DWI enforcement, but also on seat belt and speed enforcement. Safer New Mexico Now (Safer), through a contract with NMDOT, provides project management assistance for the law enforcement agency project agreements. They assist agencies with their reimbursements and produce monthly activity-summary reports. Results During FY10, 81 law enforcement agencies and the San Juan County Task Force participated in TSBfunded DWI enforcement activities including Superblitz, the NHTSA National Impaired Driving Crackdown and sustained enforcement activities. The 12 State Police Districts are counted as one of the 81 agencies. Law enforcement agencies conducted the following major operations in FY10:  Winter Superblitz November 20, 2009 – January 3, 2010  Spring Superblitz March 12 – March 28, 2010  Cinco de Mayo Superblitz April 30 – May 9, 2010  Fourth of July Miniblitz July 1 – July 4, 2010  National DWI Crackdown August 20 – September 6, 2010 Law enforcement agencies maintained sustained DWI enforcement by conducting checkpoint and saturation patrols in their local areas throughout the year. During ODWI and special DWI enforcement operations, law enforcement officers conducted 536 sobriety checkpoints and 3,147 saturation patrols, arresting 2,041 persons for suspected drunk driving. While the focus during these activities is on DWI, law enforcement officers are able to cite for 13 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 other violations or apprehend individuals involved in other criminal activities. Along with the 2,041 DWI arrests, these enforcement operations resulted in the following:           17,299 citations for speeding 9,466 citations for no insurance 2,265 citations for driving with a suspended or revoked license 2,842 citations for no or improper use of seat belts or child restraints 197 citations for reckless driving 278 felony arrests and 156 misdemeanor arrests 990 fugitives apprehended 28 stolen vehicles recovered 393 drug arrests 27,469 citations for violations other than these listed In FY10, 53 law enforcement agencies participated in the 100 Days and Nights of Summer campaign. TSB provided overtime funds and law enforcement agencies used other State, city or county funds to conduct this campaign. The campaign began on June 1, 2010 and concluded on September 8, 2010. For reporting purposes, activities conducted through September 30 are included in the totals provided below. During this period, these law enforcement agencies made 91 DWI arrests, 22 felony arrests, 183 misdemeanor arrests, 153 fugitive arrests and 33 drug arrests. Six stolen vehicles were recovered. Over 27,600 other citations were issued including:       12,684 speeding citations 2,569 seat belt or child restraint citations 3,386 uninsured motorist citations 583 suspended or revoked license citations 76 reckless driving citations 8,345 other citations TRAINING AND EDUCATION PROJECTS Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor The NMDOT/TSB funds a full-time Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor (TSRP) to conduct regional training for:  new and inexperienced assistant district attorneys  municipal and county prosecutors  law enforcement officers  tribal prosecutors and police  DWI program coordinators  county compliance officers  probation and parole officers  toxicologists  not-for-profit DWI coordinators The TSRP conducts training in the following areas using specialists in a variety of DWI subject matter: DWI/ appellate case law, sentencing issues, legislative issues, standardized field sobriety testing and scientific lab division techniques, including breath and blood testing procedures. She focuses training on drug recognition expert (DRE) issues and allows DRE officers to present on issues that arise in court and in the political spectrum. Victims’ rights involving drunk-driving crashes are also frequently addressed at various statewide training sessions. 14 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Training is specific to issues and needs that arise in each particular jurisdiction, and the curriculum for training may be modified based on those needs. Results In FY10, the TSRP participated in the following training sessions:  January 2010 - Cadet Training at Law Enforcement Academy  April 2010 – Crash Reconstruction and DWI Training at Law Enforcement Academy  April 2010 - SFST Training at Santa Fe Police Department  June 2010 - Crash Reconstruction, SFST and DWI/ DRE Training at Law Enforcement Academy Training sessions included updates on ignition interlock procedures, license revocation and suspension, and DWI and appellate cases, along with standardized field sobriety test refreshers and issues involving breath and blood tests. In addition, the TSRP:  Met throughout the year with the FHWA Safety Specialist to discuss various DWI issues including statistics, dismissal rates, ignition interlock, DWI policies and procedures for prosecutors and police, and cooperative agreements among law enforcement agencies and prosecutors.  Made a presentation at the NAPC/ TSRP Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas in December 2009. The presentation was about New Mexico’s media campaign to target drunk drivers in different parts of the State, depending on the ethnic and geographic makeup of the area.  Was involved in several court cases, and provided training and technical assistance to law enforcement agencies. She was present at a number of DWI checkpoints and saturation patrols to observe procedures. Statewide DWI Training for Law Enforcement The NMDOT/ TSB contracted with T.A.C.T. & Associates, Inc. (TACT) to serve as the State’s coordinator for Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) training for law enforcement. TACT adheres to New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Board approved SFST standards. In addition to coordinating training, TACT maintained and updated its comprehensive tracking program of all training TACT coordinates and provides. This unique database also contains the enforcement leadership contact information for 144 law enforcement agencies in the State (approximately 99 percent of all agencies) and is one of the most comprehensive and complete departmental information and training lists available in New Mexico. Results In FY10, TACT coordinated training with the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy and its satellite academies statewide. Contacts were maintained with the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, the Municipal Chiefs Association, the Sheriffs and Police Association, and TSB to ensure coordination of the SFST process and provide information on future SFST and other DWI training. TACT worked with the Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor on statewide training conferences and dissemination of important DWI cases affecting SFST in New Mexico. Staff maintained contact with DWI liaisons and provided DWI Implied Consent cards to SFST classes. TACT continued to host their own website and newsletter to enhance communication and cooperation with law enforcement agencies regarding training opportunities. In FY10, TACT provided direct training to law enforcement officers statewide, as follows: 15 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST)         SFST Instructor Course (32 officers) SFST Instructor Refresher Course (120 officers) SFST Wet-Lab Course (168 officers) SFST Wet-Lab Refresher Course (95 officers) SFST Dry-Lab Refresher Course (712 officers) SFST Refresher Course (85 officers) DWI Checkpoint Course (60 officers) Police as Prosecutor Course (56 officers) Summary Trained 1,328 law enforcement personnel with course curriculum Completed 15,132 officer hours of training Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) Training The TSB contracted with the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) to manage the DRE Training Project. The project focused on expanding the number of certified DREs statewide, especially in rural areas and smaller counties; ensuring DRE training is available to law enforcement statewide; expanding drug impairment training for education professionals; providing training to State assistant District attorneys; and increasing the number of DRE instructors in the State. Results In FY10:      The number of DRE officers increased to 120 27 new DRE officers were trained, certified and equipped Four recertification trainings were conducted recertifying the existing 93 DRE officers One new DRE Instructor completed training APD collaborated with the State Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor on four training seminars provided to assistant District attorneys and law enforcement officers  APD made presentations on the dangers of drugged driving to 60 students at two Albuquerque middle schools  APD conducted one ‘Drug Impairment Training for Educational Professionals’ and four ‘Advanced Roadside Driving Impairment Enforcement’ trainings  Eight officers (instructors and non-instructors) attended the 2010 DRE Impaired Driving Conference in Pittsburg in August DWI Judicial and Prosecutor Education Under a contract with the TSB, and working with the guidance of the Judicial Education and Training Advisory Committee, the New Mexico Judicial Education Center (JEC) at the UNM Institute of Public Law, School of Law, provided educational seminars and conferences for judges around the State. The JEC maintained interactive training on its website for judges and clerks, and provided nine different bench books for limited and general jurisdiction courts. Additionally, the JEC provided DWI training to all newly appointed magistrate and municipal judges, and presented on DWI topics at its annual conferences for these judges. Results In FY10, the New Mexico Judicial Education Center performed the following activities: DWI Resource Materials  Collected and analyzed DWI legal developments including case law, statutes and rules, and worked on extensive updates to the New Mexico DWI Benchbook. 16 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 DWI Online and Distance Education  Offered two DWI-related video conferences for magistrate courts: (1) ‘Probation Violations’ presented by Shari Weinstein, Administrative Office of the Courts Staff Attorney; and (2) ‘Issues in Criminal Cases, Part 1’ presented by Karen Janes, Administrative Office of the Courts Magistrate Division Director, and Shari Weinstein. These video conferences were attended by 12 magistrate judges, 34 magistrate court staff members and 3 others, for a total of 49 attendees.  Updated online DWI resources and training components, as appropriate. DWI In-Person Education  Prepared and delivered DWI training at the New Municipal Judges Orientation in March 2010 including a legal overview, an explanation/ demonstration of field sobriety tests by two law enforcement officers, and an explanation/ demonstration of the Intoxilyzer 8000 (breath tester) and breath/blood testing procedures by a Scientific Laboratory Division scientist.  Offered DWI-related training at the Municipal Court Conference in June 2010 for judges and court staff.  Offered the National Judicial College’s ‘Impaired Driving Case Essentials’ course in July 2010. The four-day course was attended by 29 magistrate judges, 11 municipal judges, 3 tribal judges and 2 metropolitan judges, for a total of 45 attendees. Topics presented by the nationally-recognized faculty, with adaptations to New Mexico law, included role of the judge; stops, searches, seizures and arrests; determining impairment in the field; standardized field sobriety tests; pre-trial administrative matters; case management concerns; 5th Amendment issues; guilty pleas; effective sentencing for youthful defendants; impaired driving issues with elderly defendants; hardcore and repeat drunk drivers; case scenarios; ignition interlock systems; immigration consequences of a DWI conviction; efficacy and legal issues of 12-step programs; pharmacological effects of addiction; identification and assessments; and guiding principles for DWI courts. Traffic Safety Reporting and Information In FY10, the Institute of Public Law (IPL) was contracted to provide information dissemination, research and facilitation services to NMDOT/ TSB. Results IPL staff maintained and updated the New Mexico Transportation Safety Law Center website, http://ipl.unm.edu/traf/index.html. The website has information on:  upcoming training and events related to DWI, ignition interlock and drugged driving  publications such as the Traffic Safety News, AlcoEdu, DWI Laws and Obtaining an Interlock License  DWI and Under-21 penalty posters  recent DWI legislation summaries  registration information for upcoming conferences and classes  related case law Staff members consulted with the TSB Public Information Officer regarding the newsletter and website information. Approximately 3,000 copies of the Traffic Safety News were produced and distributed quarterly during FY10. Each issue included a column from the NMDOT Secretary, calendar information with upcoming events and contact information, monthly statistics, and traffic and DWI-related news stories from New Mexico and elsewhere. 17 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Approximately 4,000 copies of the AlcoEdu publication were produced and mailed, in 4 issues, to all elementary and secondary schools in New Mexico, including Bureau of Indian Education schools. There was an additional email subscriber list of about 100. This year’s topics included:  alcoholism  the State legislative session  graduated driver licensing  social host liability  why children drink  Life of an Athlete: a teen athletics program to deter alcohol use  brain development  proposed change to tie student performance to driver license availability in New Mexico Special emphasis was placed on lesson plans and development of ideas for use in the classroom. In September 2010, a packet of information and resources on the dangers of underage drinking was sent to principals at all New Mexico high schools. The packet included:  a letter to the principal of the school with website information  felony alcohol poster  underage penalties  alcohol poisoning poster  AlcoEdu newsletter summer issue  fast facts sheets on early onset drinking and other related posters to be displayed in the schools IPL staff provided legal research and responses to inquiries by TSB and its traffic safety partners, including:  clarification of information on High Cost of DWI poster for DWI Czar  DWI penalties  halogen lights  DWI delinquency charge in children’s code  staffed Ignition Interlock Task Force  review of the CTSP Youth Driver Crashes area of emphasis  updated information for DWI rack card  fatal crashes and child endangerment  research on the Albuquerque Seizure/Forfeiture ordinance  yellow striping on highways  traffic signals and timing  research into checkpoints  information for bail bondsmen presentation  research on distracted driving and cell phone ordinances  legislative summary  review of occupant protection laws BAC Testing and Training The Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) of the New Mexico Department of Health provides breath alcohol and drug recognition testing and training, and conducts toxicology investigations for use in impaired driver prosecutions. Results In FY10, the SLD continued to place special emphasis on training for law enforcement officers. Training included:  17 Intoxilyzer 8000 (breath tester) Breath Operator Full Certification Classes and 2 Intoxilyzer 8000 Breath Operator Modified Certification Classes* with 454 officers trained 18 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010    5 Intoxilyzer 8000 Key Operator Classes with 71 officers trained 24 outreach seminars with 525 officers receiving breath alcohol testing and training on the effect of alcohol on driving 300 additional officers trained by SLD certified instructors (police officers) *Full Certification requires 8 hours of training; Modified Certification requires 4 hours of training and is used when an operator is already certified on one instrument and is seeking an additional certification. SLD staff attended a number of conferences and training sessions on a variety of topics related to driving under the influence and forensic toxicology issues. UNDERAGE DRINKING PREVENTION PROJECTS Life of an Athlete TSB completed the first year of a four-year partnership with the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA). The NMAA is a statewide organization that oversees all sports activities in New Mexico’s secondary schools. The Life of an Athlete project targets high school athletes with messages regarding the inverse relationship between peak athletic performance and alcohol consumption (e.g., one night of heavy drinking results in the loss of two weeks of training). Studies by the American Athletic Institute show that drinking alcohol decreases athletic performance in the areas of speed, endurance, agility, strength and concentration. Results In July 2010, the NMAA and TSB developed a new ‘Life of an Athlete’ website (www.lifeofanathlete.com) that was launched to National and State accolades. TSB and NMAA sponsored a press conference to announce the launch of the website. The press conference was attended by New Mexico’s First Lady, Mrs. Barbara Richardson and approximately 30 other interested persons. Numerous newspapers and TV stations provided coverage, and the National USA Today newspaper published an article about the website. Also in FY10, the following activities were conducted by TSB and NMAA:  A focus group among 14 high school athletes to receive input into development of the new website  Five regional workshops for athletic directors and coaches to create awareness of alcohol consumption and performance  Presentations at 12 high schools reaching 2,565 athletes and other students directly via assemblies  Developed Life of an Athlete logic model for purposes of evaluation  Reached about 4,000 high school students, most from New Mexico  Presented at numerous national conferences reaching over 300 decision-makers from other states Plans for the next fiscal year include: 1) outreach to parents; 2) assessing needs via a survey of middle school athletes to see if the current website is appropriate; 3) develop additional media materials for sport-specific tournaments; and, 4) conduct outreach to the New Mexico School Boards Association to inform them of new website. Social Host Ordinance Awareness The New Mexico Youth Risk and Resiliency Survey data tell us that about 80 to 85 percent of teen drinking takes place in either the parents’ house or in the houses of their friend’s parents. This past year, via a request for proposals, TSB laid the groundwork for this project with three small awards to Cibola, Lea and Torrance counties to educate their respective communities about the extent of their underage drinking problems using the Youth Risk and Resiliency Survey data, and then moving 19 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 toward establishing Social Host Ordinance (SHO) awareness projects. These awards were made in September 2010. Results In preparation for the award of these projects, TSB conducted a statewide training with National expert, Jim Mosher. This training attracted about 30 prevention specialists and a few law enforcement representatives. TSB conducted two regional SHO trainings in Las Vegas and Las Cruces attracting 50 interested persons. TSB delivered 10 SHO presentations in various counties to approximately 100 persons and conducted twenty technical assistance consultations via telephone. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a partner in this effort, and TSB distributes MADD’s Power of Parents educational flyers at SHO events. TSB worked with the University of New Mexico’s Institute of Public Law to produce a Social Host Ordinance Fact Sheet for distribution. In early FY11, Mr. Mosher will conduct ‘Advanced SHO’ training in Moriarty for the three SHO awardees and other interested community members from Santa Fe, Laguna and Mescalero. OTHER PROJECTS DWI/ Drug Courts There are seven DWI/ Drug Courts in New Mexico and 37 other drug courts. These courts operate in 24 of New Mexico's 33 counties at District, metropolitan and magistrate court levels. The State's DWI/ Drug Courts are in the following courts: Bernalillo County Metropolitan, Dona Ana County Magistrate, Eddy County Magistrate, Valencia County Magistrate, Santa Fe County Magistrate, Torrance County Magistrate and McKinley County Magistrate. During FY10, TSB had allocated funds to the Administrative Office of the Courts for five of the seven courts, but funded only four. Results DWI/ Drug Court # of Program Graduates Graduated % Recidivism % Retention % Dona Ana Magistrate 25 76 0 85 Santa Fe Co. Magistrate 8 42 0 65 Valencia Co. Magistrate 17 85 6 88 Eddy Co. Magistrate* -- -- -- -- McKinley Co. Magistrate** -- -- -- -- * In FY10, the Eddy County Magistrate DWI/ Drug Court maintained a participant average of 95 persons. During this period information had not been tracked appropriately, and the program coordinator left the program. The program is in the process of being restructured. **In FY10, the McKinley County Magistrate DWI/ Drug Court did not receive funding due to operational deficiencies. The Court, with the assistance of the Administrative Office of the Courts is working to restructure its program. Court Monitoring Court Monitoring Project staff (court monitors) collect court data on impaired driving cases in the six counties with the highest number of DWI cases. Court monitors focus attention on specific cases where arrests, sentencing or outcomes appear inconsistent with arrest procedures, mandatory sentencing, treatment or other standard protocol for DWI cases. Through the collection of this data, 20 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 the State can work closely with the judiciary to recommend system improvements and identify necessary resources to assist with adjudication of cases. Results The Court Monitoring Advisory Committee met to review and make recommendations on the project. Court monitoring specialists received continuing education/ training during monthly meetings throughout the project period. Interim reports were produced in March and in July 2010. These reports analyzed data from randomly selected cases and set forth detailed findings and recommendations based on trends seen in the monitoring period. Interim reports were provided to NMDOT/ TSB and to the State’s DWI Czar. In FY10, court monitoring specialists monitored cases in the following courts: COUNTY # OF CASES TOTAL 280 229 218 265 216 224 1,432 Rio Arriba Santa Fe Bernalillo Dona Ana San Juan McKinley COURTS District, magistrate, municipal District, magistrate, municipal District, metro District, magistrate District, magistrate, municipal District, magistrate, municipal Liquor Control Act Assistance The Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD) issues Liquor Control Act citations to businesses that serve alcohol to intoxicated persons. or that serve or sell to minors. TSB provides support to RLD for additional staff to process these citations. Results In FY10, New Mexico’s Regulation and Licensing Department issued and processed 564 Liquor Control Act citations. DWI Enforcement Task Force – McKinley County The DWI Enforcement Task Force in McKinley County uses a cross-commissioning agreement to conduct checkpoints, saturation patrols and over-time enforcement in McKinley County, to include the Navajo Nation. This Task Force includes officers from the Gallup Police Department, McKinley County Sheriff’s Department, New Mexico Department of Public Safety and the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety. A DWI prosecutor handles court cases resulting from Task Force activities. Results In FY10, the McKinley County Task Force participated in 14 checkpoints, resulting in 325 DWI arrests, 356 citations for suspended or revoked license, 198 citations for open container and 5 citations for underage alcohol consumption. Community Driving While Impaired (CDWI) CDWI is a statewide program that distributes funds back to cities and counties from which they are generated. These funds come from a $75.00 fee that judges impose on a person convicted of a DWI. In order to be eligible for funding, each city or county must develop a plan on how to best use these 21 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 resources to fight DWI in their communities. Allocated funds can be used in any of the following four categories: enforcement, prevention, offender programs, and public information and education. The CDWI Program helps many communities throughout the State spread DWI awareness through media, prevention and enforcement programs that would be difficult to conduct without the funds provided through this program. Although the majority of communities place their monies in enforcement, several used CDWI funds for prevention programs. Results In FY10, all of New Mexico’s 33 counties received CDWI funding that totaled over $632,000. Metro Court Supervised Probation Project The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court was awarded monies for a two-year pilot project with the intent of monitoring offenders/ defendants ordered to install and use ignition interlocks in their vehicles (all DWI offenders). In July 2006, the Program was expanded to include a new pilot project, in addition to monitoring ignition interlock use. The DWI First Offender Enhanced Supervision Program was designed to enhance supervision on true, first-time DWI offenders that were previously unsupervised. Offenders deemed at high risk to reoffend were placed in the supervision component and those deemed at low risk to reoffend were placed in the unsupervised component. The goal of this project was to determine if supervision of true first-time offenders would decrease or deter recidivism among this population. The DWI First Offender Enhanced Supervision Program (DWI FOP) began accepting participants in September 2006. In March 2008, the Program modified its original study design to include two additional high-risk sub-groups. These two additional groups were added to provide improved comparisons of the effectiveness of supervision with these high-risk offenders. Offenders that fell into the high-risk group were randomly selected to participate in one of the three sub-groups within the high-risk category. The three supervision sub-groups were as follows: 1. High Risk Unsupervised (HU)- monitor compliance only 2. High Risk Supervision (HS) – supervised probation that included two contacts per month: one direct face -to- face and one telephonic contact 3. High Risk Intermediate Supervision (HI)-supervised probation that included weekly contact. Direct face-to-face would alternate with telephonic contact on a weekly basis. This increased number of contacts was designed to assist in assuring compliance with all court orders. Results DWI First Offender Enhanced Supervision Program: Due to the change in the initial study design, the program reported only program participation. As of September 2010, the Program reported: 1,548 Unsupervised – did not meet high-risk criteria 533 Supervised – did meet high-risk criteria 403 Ignition interlock only – defendants who are pending trial on their DWI – not yet convicted 25 In custody – defendants ordered to ignition interlock, but who are still in custody The total number of ignition interlocks installed was 1,245. DWI Prosecution in Practice The University of New Mexico - School of Law provided a DWI Prosecution in Practice course to law students that included information on case law, procedures and issues related to DWI in New Mexico. 22 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Results Between May and August 2010, preparations were made to conduct the course beginning in the Fall semester (August 2010). Preparations included the following:  A professor was hired by UNM to conduct the course.  A practicum and the curriculum were developed.  Logistical protocols for case referral and prosecution were developed.  Participation by community agencies was detailed.  Student materials were developed.  A program assistant was hired and trained.  A pre-post course questionnaire was developed to gauge students’ knowledge and practical experience in DWI issues and prosecution. For the Fall semester in August 2010, eight students were enrolled in the course. Students will receive class course work, including guest speakers and courtroom case field experience. The Pre-test was administered during the first class of the semester. Drunk Busters Hotline - #DWI The Drunk Busters Hotline was initiated in 2006 to allow the general public to report drivers suspected of driving under the influence. A driver who witnesses erratic driving that may be due to impaired driving is encouraged to call the Drunk Busters Hotline and provide details to a State Police dispatcher. Callers can use a short code (#DWI or #394) from their cell phone (using a hands-free device) or can call the toll-free number, 1-877-DWI HALT (877-394-4258). The toll-free number is funded by the State. The Drunk Busters hotline is answered 24 hours a day by Department of Public Safety dispatchers who then contact State and local law enforcement officers to investigate. The number of calls received on the Hotline has increased dramatically since the Program’s inception. The program receives an average of 1,700 calls per month. Upon receipt of a call, law enforcement agencies are notified immediately and an officer is dispatched immediately. In the event that contact is not made by an officer, a ‘Drunk Buster’ letter is sent to the vehicle owner who is registered to the license plate. The ‘Drunk Busters’ letter was added to the program in July 2008 to notify vehicle owners that their vehicle was reported to the Drunk Busters Hotline and noted for erratic driving behavior. The letter outlines the date, time and location of the erratic driving behavior and asks the owner to address the driving behavior. The letter serves as a public awareness tool and encourages drivers to call the Hotline to report suspect drunk drivers. Results In FY10, the Drunk Busters Hotline received 21,033 calls resulting in 2,006 contacts and 354 DWI arrests. See the NM Drunk Busters website at: http://www.dps.nm.org/lawEnforcement/dwi/drunkbusters.php Ignition Interlock The NMDOT/ TSB is responsible for the licensing and certification of Ignition Interlock providers and the administration of the Ignition Interlock Indigent Device Fund. Once approved, provider information is available on the UNM Transportation Safety Center website for use by agencies and the public: http://ipl.unm.edu/traf/home.html. 23 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 The Ignition Interlock Program Manager monitors, investigates and resolves complaints, and responds to calls for information about ignition interlock requirements from the public, service providers and other government agencies nationally and internationally. Results In FY10, certification was approved for 21 new service center providers, 28 new installers and 15 new service technicians. TSB renewed 155 other service provider applications. There are seven manufacturers distributing interlocks in New Mexico with a total of 67 service centers, 118 installers and 67 service technicians. TSB program managers have met with and made presentations to the courts, county compliance officers, law enforcement officers, Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Navajo Nation Divisions of Highway and Public Safety, and officers from New Mexico Adult Probation and Parole. The goal of this outreach is to educate and assist these individuals in the proper utilization of the ignition interlock as a tool for reducing drunk driving. In FY10, there were approximately 11,998 individuals with interlock devices installed in their vehicles. TSB estimates that there were over 67,700 ignition interlock lockouts – a lockout is when a DWI offender tests positive for alcohol (.025g/dl or higher) when they blow into the interlock to get their car started. Ignition Interlock Indigent Fund The NMDOT/TSB is legislatively mandated to administer the New Mexico’s Ignition Interlock Indigent Fund and has done so since March 2006. Annually, $300,000 is appropriated to the Fund from the State’s Liquor Excise Tax. Additional funds come from a $100 ‘Indigent Fund’ fee for every year a non-indigent individual has the interlock installed. In 2010, TSB also received a one-time allocation of a total of $250,000 from four county DWI grant councils. In the past year, the number of individuals in New Mexico ordered to install interlock devices has increased as has the number of offenders benefitting from the Fund. In February 2010, due to a lack of revenue in the Fund, the NMDOT/TSB suspended the availability of the subsidy. For the remainder of the fiscal year, the only benefit available to those declared indigent has been that the individual did not have to pay the $100 ‘Indigent Fund’ fee. TSB expects to reinstate the subsidy in the next fiscal year. New legislative changes effective July 1, 2010 created a standard for indigent status; moved the determination of indigent status from the courts and probation and parole to the TSB; standardized the subsidy amounts for services; moved the collection of the non-indigent device Fund fee from the vendors to the Motor Vehicle Division; and increased the amount allowable for administration of the Fund from 5 percent to 10 percent. When the subsidy is available, it covers one vehicle per offender, up to $50.00 for the cost of the interlock installation, $30.00 monthly for verified active use of the interlock device and $50.00 for the cost of removal of the device. Results In FY10, TSB processed and paid $950,186 in claims from the Ignition Interlock Indigent Fund. Since July, TSB has processed 200 applications for indigent status. TSB has created an instruction page and application in English and Spanish for individuals seeking a subsidy from the Interlock Indigent Fund. The link to obtain an application is: http://nmshtd.state.nm.us/main.asp?secid=16157. 24 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Occupant Protection Program Area Program Administration The Occupant Protection Program is administered by TSB Staff. Individual projects are administered by various law enforcement agencies, Safer New Mexico Now and the New Mexico Department of Health/ Injury Epidemiology Unit. Primary Projects – Federal and State Funds Operation Buckle Down and Click It or Ticket Enforcement New Mexico Annual Seat Belt Use Survey Region 6 Teen Seat Belt Demonstration Project New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program Child Passenger Safety Technical Training Child Safety Seat Fitting Stations and Clinics Buckle-Up New Mexico Conference Occupant Protection Performance Measures based on Annual Data January 1, 2009 – December 31, 2009 6) Reduce the number of unrestrained occupant fatalities (all seat positions) from 163 in 2007 to 155 by 2010 (C-4; FARS Data). C-4 Unrestrained Occupant Fatalities 250 200 183 171 163 150 128 124 100 50 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 STATUS: Achieved and Exceeded Final 2009 data show that the number of unrestrained occupant fatalities was reported at 124. 25 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 New Mexico Seat Belt Survey Conducted May-June Annually 7) Increase the observed seat belt use percentage for front-seat outboard occupants from 91.1% in 2008 to 91.8% by 2010 (B-1;NM Survey Data). B-1 Percent Observed Seat Belt Use 100.0 90.0 89.6 91.5 91.1 90.1 80.0 89.8 70.0 60.0 50.0 40.0 30.0 20.0 10.0 0.0 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 STATUS: Not Achieved Final 2010 data show that the official observed seat belt use percentage for front-seat outboard occupants was reported at 89.8 percent. Achievement of Performance Measures NMDOT achieved one of its two FY10 HSPP Occupant Protection Program performance measures. The number of unrestrained occupant fatalities was reduced by 24 percent between 2007 and 2009. New Mexico has been successful in keeping its observed seat belt use percentage steady over the past five years. Driver seat belt use was recorded at 90.8 percent. Front seat passenger use (persons sitting by the right door) was recorded at 86.4 percent. New Mexico’s seat belt use continues to be above the national percentage, as it has for many years. In 2009, NM ranked 14th among states. The following FY10 Occupant Protection Program projects assisted the State in maintaining high levels of overall occupant protection use, and in increasing the public’s knowledge about and proper use of child restraint devices. OCCUPANT PROTECTION PROGRAM Operation Buckle Down and Click It or Ticket Enforcement NMDOT funds contracts for law enforcement to participate in Operation Buckle Down (OBD) and in the annual National Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization. The primary objective of OBD and Click It or Ticket is to educate and/or cite those who fail to comply with New Mexico’s seat belt and child restraint laws. Each OBD campaign was accompanied by media and education efforts. Safer New Mexico Now assists with the administration of this project by processing law enforcement agreements and reimbursements, and producing monthly summary reports. 26 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 Results In FY10, 35 law enforcement agencies participated in OBD enforcement activities (includes the 12 State Police districts). These officers issued 5,714 seat belt and 585 child restraint citations. During these activities, law enforcement officers also issued the following citations: 1,653 for speeding, 1,092 for uninsured motorist, 281 for driving with a revoked or suspended license and 55 for reckless driving. Officers apprehended 76 fugitives, made 29 felony arrests, 24 drug arrests and recovered nine stolen vehicles. Another 3,363 citations were issued for violations other than these listed. In FY10, 30 law enforcement agencies participated in the National Click It or Ticket campaign (includes the 12 State Police districts). During this campaign, law enforcement officers issued 2,692 seat belt citations and 213 child restraint citations. Officers also issued the following citations: 877 for speeding, 587 for uninsured motorist, 94 for driving with a revoked or suspended license and three for reckless driving. Officers apprehended 57 fugitives and made 11 drug arrests. Another 1,450 citations were issued for violations other than these listed. New Mexico Annual Seat Belt Use Survey New Mexico conducts an annual Seat Belt Use Survey, an observation survey required of all states by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and as a required provision of SAFETEA-LU. The TSB contracts with the New Mexico Department of Health, Injury Epidemiology Unit to conduct this survey to evaluate motor vehicle seat belt use in New Mexico. The findings of the annual survey demonstrate the impact of New Mexico’s primary seat belt laws (i.e., a citation can be issued for nonbelt use even if no other violation occurs). In FY10, New Mexico conducted pre and post surveys on car and pick-up trucks. Trained observers recorded front shoulder belt use by drivers and front outboard passengers (sitting by the right door). The observation sites are a sample of public roadway locations that were selected by a random sampling process in 1998 and since then, the same sites have been used annually. Results Post-Survey Observed Seat Belt Use in New Mexico – 2010 Number of Occupants Observed Seat Belt Use Type of Vehicle All Vehicles Driver Passenger Pickup Trucks – Front Seat Driver Passenger 17,411 13,219 4,192 4,666 3,623 1,043 89.8 90.8 86.4 86.1 86.9 83.5 New Mexico has achieved an overall seat belt use statistically at 90 percent or above for the past four years. This year’s seat belt use percentage of 89.8 had a 95 percent confidence interval of 88.5 91.0. Region 6 Teen Seat Belt Demonstration Project New Mexico participated in the NHTSA Region 6 Teen Seat Belt Demonstration Project. This twoyear effort sought to increase teen seat belt use through enforcement activities combined with tailored 27 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010 media and outreach. Three waves of enforcement focusing on teens were conducted during the FY10 project period. The project was conducted in the eight counties in New Mexico with the highest teen crash and fatality rates: Bernalillo, Dona Ana, San Juan, McKinley, Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, Lea and Sandoval. Results In FY10, three enforcement, media and outreach waves were conducted: October 19-25, 2009; February 22–28, 2010; and April 26-May 2, 2010. State, local and tribal law enforcement agencies participated in the project. Officers used enforcement zones, saturation patrols and night-time enforcement at shopping centers, high school sporting events, restaurants and in other areas popular with teens. A kick-off news conference was held in Albuquerque prior to the first wave in October. Representatives from the Albuquerque public schools, driver education instructors, law enforcement and NMDOT attended the conference. Press releases were distributed in each of the focus counties prior to each wave. Purchased and earned media was used for the campaign. Radio ads promoting the campaign and the ‘Click Don’t Splat’ website ran during each wave. Tool Kits were distributed to almost 100 high schools and organizations in the focus counties. Tool Kits contained Click It or Ticket posters, flashcards, flyers, window clings and lawn signs, along with a letter detailing what TSB hoped to accomplish with the campaign. Outreach included working with partners including Safer New Mexico Now, driver education instructors, student organizations, public schools and colleges, MVD and media and marketing firms to identify organizations for participation in the campaign. Law enforcement agencies sent representatives to school to talk about upcoming activities and about the importance of buckling up. A video contest ran on the www.clickdontsplat.com website to allow teens to submit videos that would encourage their fellow teens to buckle up. The website was maintained during the year and links added to the site. The website includes quizzes, trivia type information, buckle up statistics and graphics that change regularly. In FY10, 24 law enforcement agencies, including State Police, participated in this campaign. Officers issued 1,617 seat belt citations and 185 citations for no child restraint; 706 (44 percent) of these citations were issued to drivers between the ages of 16 and 20. New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program (NMCSSDP) The NMCSSDP is administered by Safer New Mexico Now (Safer) and provides ongoing technical and administrative assistance to each child safety seat distribution site. With the support of hospitals and healthcare clinics, lower income families are provided child safety seats and instruction on their proper use. Several of these sites serve primarily Spanish-speaking populations. All distribution sites receive educational resources from the Safer Injury Prevention Resource Center (IPRC) throughout the year. Results In FY10, 39 agencies participated in the NMCSSDP distributing 2,264 child safety seats to lowincome families. Site staff show child passenger safety videos, review educational brochures and provide individual instruction on how to install the child safety seat. Program services are available to an estimated 90.2 percent of the State’s total population. 28 NMDOT Traffic Safety Bureau FY10 Annual Report December 2010