A comprehensive new program aimed at reducing the number of serious injuries and fatalities resulting from crashes on New Hampshire roadways to zero was announced in Concord today. Called "Driving Toward Zero," the program is an outgrowth of the state's 2012 to 2016 Strategic Highway Safety Plan, which outlines strategies for improvement in critical emphasis areas that include impaired and distracted driving, speeding, and vehicle occupant protection. The plan was completed by a team formed by members from various public and private agencies and organizations, which now comprise the NH Driving Toward Zero Coalition.

Joined by members of the Coalition, NH Department of Transportation Commissioner Chris Clement introduced the program's brand, including a logo, which will be utilized by various agencies and organizations in their highway safety-related communications, education and outreach efforts. He also recognized program media partners, Josh Judge, WMUR-Channel 9 broadcast meteorologist, Tracy Caruso, co-host of New Hampshire in the Morning on WZID 95.7 FM, and Scott Spradling of Spadling Group and former reporter and anchor for WMUR-Channel 9.

"While zero deaths on New Hampshire's highways may seem like an unreachable goal, we can all agree that even one fatality is one too many, and that zero is the only number we can live with," Commissioner Clement said. "The current levels of deaths and injuries are unacceptable and each of us must do everything we can to make a difference."

Today's event at the Department of Transportation headquarters in Concord also featured remarks by Peter Thomson, Coordinator, New Hampshire Highway Safety; John Barthelmes, Commissioner, New Hampshire Department of Safety; Colonel Robert Quinn, Director, New Hampshire State Police; and Christopher Pope, Director, New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management . All spoke of the significance of the "Driving Toward Zero" program as a truly integrated statewide effort which will help drivers and other roadway users make responsible personal choices when traveling New Hampshire's roads and highways.

Commissioner Clement read a proclamation by Governor John Lynch, proclaiming July 2012 "Driving Toward Zero Month" in the State of New Hampshire. He also encouraged everyone to visit the program website to take the "Driving Toward Zero Pledge" to take the first step in creating a culture of safety in the State of New Hampshire.

For more information about the New Hampshire Driving Toward Zero program, the Strategic Highway Safety Plan, and to take the Driving Toward Zero Pledge, visit www.nhdrivingtowardzero.com.