WASHINGTON STATE – The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is taking a creative approach to road safety. In response to last year’s high number of traffic deaths, WSDOT is using humorous and memorable signs to capture drivers’ attention.
One sign reads, “Accessorize that ugly Xmas sweater… Buckle up,” while another states, “Gift ideas don’t always click… but a seatbelt does.” These messages aim to remind drivers of essential safety practices like wearing seatbelts and avoiding drinking and driving.
Ryan Overton from WSDOT East explained the strategy behind these signs.
“We can run those messages until we’re blue in the face… but most people will look at that and be like yep, I know. Whereas when you talk about an ugly Christmas sweater it might bring a smile to somebody’s face and go oh yeah, that’s a funny conversation starter and I’m gonna talk to my kids about it,” he said.
WSDOT East plans to continue this creative approach with future messages featuring Santa Claus, milk and cookies, or fruitcake themes. These signs aim to engage drivers in a lighthearted way while promoting crucial safety habits on the road.
