PHOENIX, AZ — If you’ve ever driven down the highway and been inspired by a witty traffic safety message on an overhead sign, now’s your chance to craft one yourself.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is back with its eighth annual Safety Message Contest. ADOT is accepting submissions for creative traffic safety messages through July 29th.
This contest gives Arizonans a unique opportunity to see their messages displayed on ADOT’s Dynamic Message Signs statewide while encouraging motorists to make better decisions behind the wheel.
“Safely connecting people is our top priority,” said ADOT Director Jennifer Toth. “This contest is an engaging way to remind everyone about the importance of being alert so everyone can get home safely.”
After submissions close, ADOT will review the entries and select at least 10 finalists for public voting. The two messages receiving the most votes will be crowned winners and featured on overhead boards along Arizona’s highways.
There are no limits to the number of entries a person can submit. However, entrants should keep these ADOT guidelines in mind:
- The message must relate to traffic safety.
- Signs accommodate 3 lines, 18 characters per line.
- #Hashtags, phone numbers, and website addresses are not allowed.
- No emojis.
- The ampersand (&) is your friend!
National crash data shows that more than 90% of vehicle crashes are caused by driver decisions, including impaired, distracted, aggressive driving, or driving at unsafe speeds.
In 2023, 1,307 people were killed in crashes on Arizona’s roads, many of which were preventable. Of these, 446 were related to speed, 332 involved alcohol, and 361 involved people not using safety devices like seatbelts or motorcycle helmets. Avoiding these unsafe behaviors makes travel safer for everyone.
Submit your safety message here.
