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For Release: Immediate
Date: August 25, 2003 |
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Sgt. Everett Clendenin Phone:(919) 733-5027
(Ext. 233) |
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For Release: Immediate
Date: August 25, 2003 |
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Sgt. Everett Clendenin Phone:(919) 733-5027
(Ext. 233) |
RALEIGH - The Labor Day holiday weekend marks the end of a busy summer vacation travel season and heavy traffic is expected statewide this year. In an effort to reduce traffic collisions, the N.C. Highway Patrol will conduct an aggressive driving crackdown on the interstates this Labor Day weekend.
"We want to make the highways as safe as possible for our citizens and visitors," said Colonel Richard W. Holden, Commander of the State Highway Patrol. "Getting to your destination safely should be your only goal; don't try to cut a few minutes off your travel time by speeding or driving aggressively. It's just not worth it."
The aggressive driver has been identified as those drivers who flagrantly violate the motor vehicle laws, including but not limited to: excessive speeding, following too closely, erratic lane changes, safe movement violations, and other forms of reckless endangerment. Aggressive drivers account for the majority of the traffic collisions that occur on the state roadways. Troopers will be using helicopters, Camaros, and unmarked patrol vehicles for this campaign.
The Highway Patrol will also join other law enforcement agencies at "Click-It or Ticket" seatbelt checkpoints across the state throughout the week, and troopers will be participating in the nationwide Combined Accident Reduction Effort. "C.A.R.E." is a coordinated effort of Highway Patrol and state police agencies. These high visibility patrols are designed to prevent crashes and ensure voluntary compliance with the motor vehicle laws.
"Buckling up and slowing down are keys to safe travel, both during the holiday period and year round," said Colonel Holden. "I also encourage everyone to take frequent rest stops, don't drink and drive, and to obey all traffic laws."
The Labor Day holiday weekend officially begins at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29th and ends at midnight, Monday, September 1st. Last year, there were 1,853 crashes, 1,201 injuries and 18 fatalities statewide during the holiday period.
Citizens can report highway problems to the Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) on their cellular phones. The toll-free call goes directly to the nearest Highway Patrol communication center.
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