That’s the message local safety experts are trying to impress upon complacent, impatient, preoccupied drivers.

Good. Motorists should understand the full price of irresponsible driving. Some people feel more pain in the wallet than in their lives and limbs.

Poor driving in Stanislaus County costs motorists, victims and the public $31.5 million a year, according to a recent survey by the Stanislaus County Safe Communities Coalition. That is based on the price of motor vehicle accidents in 1996-97, updated to reflect 2000 dollars.

The costs include medical expenses; funeral bills; lost wages and productivity. Higher insurance premiums. Administrative processing. Public costs to police and fire departments. And more.

To avoid these bills and preserve lives and health, motorists can slow down and perk up behind the wheel. They can practice caution and minimize distractions. They can realize that police do their best to enforce traffic laws, but officers can’t be everywhere at once.

Above all, each driver can be aware and accountable. Safe driving is in every motorist’s self-interest, and it is every motorist’s responsibility.

Reprinted by permission of the Modesto Bee.