Police: 'Preventable' Collisions Continue in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac

There were roughly three minor fender-benders and five serious (but non-fatal) car crashes each day in the first half of 2013 in Montgomery County's second police district, which covers Bethesda, Chevy Chase and most of Potomac, according to a statement from Captain David Falcinelli, commander of the second police district.

None of the 22 fatal traffic collisions occurring in Montgomery County in the first half of 2013 took place in the second police district, but the second district still averaged about 100 minor fender-benders and about 150 more serious crashes each month, he said. 

"Almost 100 percent of crashes are preventable and most are the result of simple inattention to the road and traffic. Too many people are still on the phone, texting, changing their music, eating and doing everything else besides paying attention to their driving," Falcinelli said.

Police officers have targeted major arteries like Wisconsin and Connecticut avenues, where many of the crashes occur. Officers also have conducted pedestrian enforcement operations or "stings" targeting drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians and pedestrians who jaywalk, Falcinelli said.

"We spend a lot of time investigating crashes and other traffic problems," Falcinelli said. That time "would be better spent increasing the patrols through your neighborhoods. Please pay attention to your driving and be ready to react when another driver does something unsafe," Falcinelli added.