ODOT: Traffic deaths may be due to anxiety 7

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--> --> ODOT: Traffic deaths may be due to anxiety PORTLAND (AP) Oregon transportation officials say anxiety from Sept. 11 could account for a statewide increase in the number of traffic fatalities so far this year. Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 10, 470 deaths on Oregon roads were recorded, compared with 425 during the same period last year. The Oregon Department of Transportation says most of the increase occurred over the last three months. According to ODOT spokesman Jay Remy, national traffic fatality experts have suggested that drivers have become more distracted since terrorist attacks. Others are turning to drugs and alcohol to cope with stress. Excessive speed, not using seat belts and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are the behaviors most responsible for traffic deaths in Oregon, and the numbers get worse during the holiday season, ODOT officials said. Email your... Technical questions & comments to: WebMaster Daily Tidings editorial comments & questions to: Editor Visit our other Oregon Newspapers... | Albany Democrat-Herald | Ashland Daily Tidings | Corvallis Gazette-Times | | Lebanon Express | Newport News-Times | Springfield News | Cottage Grove Sentinel | Ashland Daily Tidings 1661 Siskiyou Blvd. Ashland, OR 97520 Telephone 541-482-3456 © Copyright 2001 Lee Northwest Publishing