HWY SAFETY PROGRAMSImpaired Driving Emergency Medical Services
Safe On All Roads (SOAR) ProgramMotor vehicle crashes have a
significant impact in Montana's Indian country - American
Indians comprise 6.2% of the population in Montana, but
represent about 17% of the motor vehicle crash deaths in the
state, on average, and about 25% of the alcohol-related
fatalities. The majority of fatalities were unbuckled. The
Montana Department of Transportation is deeply committed to
reducing crash deaths and injuries on the reservations in
Montana. The department initiated the SOAR program to reduce
highway fatalities through education and community outreach on
Montana Reservations. Based on the fatality data, the SOAR
program focuses on impaired driving prevention and occupant
protection. Program messages and communications are developed
within each tribe to resonate to each individual culture. The
program relies on strong local partnerships, especially with the
tribal college. Other local partnerships include law enforce