Major Leroy Taylor Major Leroy Taylor of the South Carolina Highway Patrol Region 1 Commander spoke to The Rotary Club of Eau Claire/North Columbia 7770 January 5, 2010.

Major Taylor informed the group the state has significantly reduced traffic fatalities in 2009 based on preliminary numbers. According to Major Taylor 924 deaths were recorded in 2008 and 885 in 2009. The statistics also indicate a reduction in the number of motorcyclists killed in traffic collisions as well.

South Carolina remains in the top five states in the country for alcohol related crashes. As a result, the patrol has increased Driving Under the Influence enforcement among all troopers and created a specialized DUI enforcement team. The patrol is also focusing attention on seat belt enforcement, noting that statewide seat belt use is at 81%. Major Taylor did point out that other violations will continue to be enforced, particularly speeding, a principle cause of crashes.

Major Taylor highlighted two educational campaigns that focus on motorcycle operators' and public awareness of the state’s move over law.

Major Taylor said the South Carolina Highway Patrol would like to come to any community group to assist in sharing educational information. The goal is to save lives on South Carolina Roadways

The Eau Claire North Columbia Rotary 7770 meets every Tuesday morning at 7:30 am at the North Main Street Deli located at 3800 N. Main St. Columbia, South Carolina 29203.