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Connecticut State Police Step Up Patrols For Memorial Day

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- Connecticut State Police are gearing up for increased traffic during this Memorial Day weekend as well as for summer 2015 celebrations and vacations.

During Memorial Day weekend, Connecticut State Police Troopers said they will employ all methods of enforcement to increase highway safety. State Troopers will use laser units for speed enforcement, as well as marked and unmarked, non-traditional police vehicles to patrol the state's highways and roadways. The State Police Aviation Unit can provide an eye from the sky.

"Good driving skills are essential to avoiding tragedies on Connecticut’s highways," said  State Police Colonel Brian Meraviglia. "The enforcement efforts of our troopers – along with drivers who follow state law – are vital to maintaining danger-free roads for drivers and passengers.”

As part of its efforts, the Connecticut State Police are participating in the National C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) program over Memorial Day Weekend. The goal of this operation is to join State Police Agencies across the country to enhance safety in all states. Motorists are reminded to expect heavy traffic, exercise caution and allow extra time to reach their destination.

The Operation C.A.R.E. holiday weekend will begin on Friday, May 22, and will continue until midnight Monday, May 25. 

During Memorial Day weekend last year, Connecticut State Police arrested 54 drunken drivers, and charged 1,248 motorists with speeding,  954 with seatbelt violations and 4,142 with hazardous moving violations. In addition, troopers investigated 301 motor vehicle accidents, 54 with injury. No fatalities were reported by State Police.

For this Memorial Day weekend, troopers will concentrate enforcement on all hazardous moving violations, seatbelt use and illegal cellphone use. Sobriety checkpoints will be set up at several locations throughout the state over the holiday weekend. 

All drivers are reminded to obey all traffic laws, pay attention to speed and if you plan to drink, designate a driver. If you see a suspected drunk driver report it immediately by calling 911.

Some safety tips – and laws – to remember:

  • Buckle up
  • Obey speed limits
  • Don't follow too close
  • Remove distractions while driving
  • Stay off your cellphone
  • Never drink and drive

 

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