Road rules strictly enforced to keep base personnel safe

Published Sept. 29, 2010
By Jonathan Hicks
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Most people enjoy freedom of driving and having their own transportation. However, along with this independence comes the responsibility of adhering to the "rules of the road" that are designed to keep all of us safe.

Military installations may be some of the safest traffic communities in the United States largely due to the many regulations and their strict enforcement. There are some differences in the rules governing military bases because they are like a self-contained city, but many of the same roadway safety issues found on public roads are also found at Keesler.

"Some of our most common violations here at Keesler are driving under the influence, speeding, minor accidents, no vehicle insurance and suspended or expired driver's licenses," according to Staff Sgt. Sheralyn Gonzalez, 81st Security Forces Squadron noncommissioned in charge of reports and analysis. "However, there's been an increase in minor vehicle accidents since the new exchange and commissary opened in April."

Traffic violations by military members and civilian employees are handled differently when it comes to punishment or fines.

"Military members are issued a Defense Department Form 1408, Armed Forces Traffic Ticket, and are accessed points against their driving record, which could lead up to punishment under the Uniformed Code of Military Justice," Sergeant Gonzalez said.

"Civilian employees are issued a DD Form 1805, United States District Court Violation Notice, which carries a monetary fine. Points are also accessed against their base driving record. If a citation is issued for speeding, the points are assessed through the state against their driving record."

Where does the money go when fines are paid?

"The money collected from fines is used for abused women's programs and shelters throughout the state of Mississippi," Sergeant Gonzalez said.

For more information, call the base traffic safety office, 377-2007.