Troopers Remain Vigilant Throughout Holiday Period
As the Christmas and New Year’s Holiday fast approaches, the State Highway Patrol anticipates a safe end to 2015. Troopers across the state will focus on violations such as driving while impaired, excessive speed, following too closely, and seat belt use. Last year in North Carolina, 27 people died in motor vehicle collisions between Christmas and New Year’s.
During last year’s two-day Christmas Holiday reporting period of 12:00 a.m. December 24th through 11:59 p.m. on December 25th, four people were killed in traffic related collisions.
Year to date, troopers have investigated 5,038 collisions statewide that have been attributed to alcohol impairment. During the same time frame, troopers made 21,554 DWI arrest which assisted in decreasing collision totals.
“Our goal is to ensure every motorist arrives safely to their destination”, said Colonel Bill Grey, commander of the State Highway Patrol. “As always, our troopers will remain vigilant to detecting and removing impaired drivers from North Carolina’s highways.”
The State Highway Patrol is asking for motorist to help with ensuring safe travel by following the suggested tips:
- Be responsible
- Plan ahead
- Designate a sober driver
- Call a cab, friend or family member if you have consumed too much of an alcoholic beverage; Do not drive
- Spend the night where you are if possible
Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting impaired and erratic drivers by simply dialing *HP or *47 on a cellular phone. Callers should give the description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license plate number if at all possible. Photo by John Payne
