State Police troopers will use all methods of enforcement to increase highway safety in Connecticut during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, a traditionally heavy travel period.
The State Police will utilize laser units for speed enforcement, as well as marked and unmarked, non-traditional police vehicles to patrol the highways and roadways.
There will be DWI checks and as well as spot checks for various driving-related violations, such as seatbelt law compliance.
In addition, the State Police Aviation Unit will provide an eye from the sky when they patrol roads across the state.
Two fatal accident during 2013 weekend
During last year’s Memorial Day weekend, State Police investigated 281 motor vehicles accidents and two fatal crashes.
They arrested 57 drunk drivers, and charged 1,941 motorists with speeding, 718 with seatbelt violations, and 4,294 with hazardous moving violations.
“In the past, we have seen several tragedies involving young drivers and motor vehicles,” said Col. Danny R. Stebbins, State Police commander. “These accidents remind us to pause and reflect on how important good driving skills and the actions of drivers can be.”
Looking for aggressive and impaired drivers
Troopers will be on patrol over the entire holiday weekend. The goal of the enforcement effort is to rid the roads of aggressive and impaired drivers.
The Connecticut State Police will participate in the National CARE (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) program over the weekend, intended to enhance safety on the roads in all states. This includes enforcement of DUI and seatbelt laws.
Be courteous, expect traffic delays
State Police officials said using courteous driving skills, and planning for possible traffic delays to and from destinations, are all part of a safe Memorial Day weekend.
People should plan ahead so if they are going to drink alcoholic beverages, they don’t drive.
State Police officials said if motorists see a suspected drunk driver, they should stay a safe distance away and call 9-1-1, as the situation represents a true emergency.
Buckle, stay off cell phone
Motorists are being advised to be observant and obey all safety rules on the roads:
— Buckle up
— Obey speed limits
— Don’t follow too closely
— Avoid all distractions while driving
— Stay off the cell phone
— Never drink and drive