Following a near record number of traffic fatalities for the first quarter of 2012, the Nevada Departments of Public Safety and Transportation, have started a full court press when it comes to educating the public about traffic safety.

Following a record number of traffic deaths in 2006, Nevada created the Nevada Strategic Highway Safety Plan which aimed to cut the number of traffic related fatalities in half by 2030. Ultimately the plan calls for there to be zero traffic related fatalities in the state, but given the sharp increase in deaths seen recently, that goal is still far off. In fact, even the goal of cutting traffic fatalities by half seems a tall order.

Despite these long odds, the Nevada Departments of Public Safety and Transportation offer these public safety reminders for anyone using Nevada roadways, whether for driving, walking, biking or riding:

* Buckle Up — Nearly 50 percent of fatality crashes that Nevada law enforcement agencies investigated in the past year involved unbuckled vehicle occupants. It only takes two seconds to click your seat belt, and the life you save might be your own.

* Don’t Drive Impaired — On average, more than 50 people are arrested daily for driving under the influence in Nevada. A first DUI arrest will likely result in a 90-day loss of driving privileges, an impounded vehicle, legal fees, court costs, two days in jail and attendance at a victim impact panel, with harsher penalties for subsequent offenses.

* Be Pedestrian Safe — In the first quarter of 2012, there were 12 pedestrian deaths on Nevada roads, double the number from the same time last year. Pedestrians should always cross safely, making eye contact with drivers. Drivers should always look for and yield to pedestrians.

* Stay in Your Lane/Keep Your Eyes on the Road — Distracted and/or sleepy driving can lead motorists to unintentionally leave their lane. Put away the distractions and drive with your full attention.

* Stop on Red — In a five-year span, 467 people died in Nevada intersection crashes. Whether at a traffic signal or stop sign, always stop on red.