RALEIGH – The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to slow down and work with the Patrol to ensure everyone has a safe holiday season this year. Last year during the Christmas and New Year holiday week, 24 people were killed and 1,183 people were injured in traffic collisions.

The leading cause of those collisions was speed. This year 1,257 people have been killed on our highways; 109 more than last year at this time.

Troopers will be conducting DWI checkpoints and strictly enforcing the state's DWI laws. The Patrol will be increasing the number of Troopers on the interstates and heavily traveled corridors. Additionally Troopers will crackdown on motorists who are driving recklessly or traveling at excessive speeds.

 “Holiday travel can be very dangerous on our highways if people don't obey the laws and use common sense when they travel,” said Colonel W. Fletcher Clay, Patrol Commander. “Drinking and driving do not mix; make the right choice – don't drink and drive.”

During the holidays, the Patrol will also be participating in the state's “Booze It and Lose It” anti-drunk driving campaign and the national Combined Accident Reduction Effort, (C.A.R.E). Sobriety checkpoints are being held throughout the state during the entire week.

The 2007 holiday period begins Monday, December 24th, and ends at midnight on Tuesday, January 1st. Drivers and passengers are also reminded to wear seat belts, slow down, and allow plenty of time to get to their destinations.

Motorists with cellular phones can report safety hazards to the Highway Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) toll free.