CT Police Target Memorial Day Weekend Traffic Scofflaws

Connecticut State Police Wednesday unveiled their strategy to try and ensure the upcoming Memorial Day Holiday weekend is as safe as possible.

The solemn holiday has evolved into the unofficial first weekend of summer, though its true meaning is to honor American military personnel who died in the line of duty.

Despite record-high gas prices well over $4.50 a gallon, police said they still expect a large number of motorists to be on local and state roads during the three-day weekend.

"State troopers are standing by to ensure that highways are free of hazardous drivers as residents drive to their destination," reads a state police release on upcoming Memorial Day activities.

According to a state police spokesperson, troopers are planning so-called "roving" patrols, whereby police — many in unmarked cruisers — will be out looking for drunk drivers and other traffic scofflaws.

The only drunk driving checkpoint mentioned in the state police plan is one slated for Friday, May 27, on Route 44 in Putnam, near Route 21.

"In addition, troops throughout the state will be conducting roving DUI patrols in each troop area," wrote police.

Police also offered some basic advice for motorists, namely:
• Wear your seat belts.
• Obey the speed limit.
• Don't follow too close to other motorists.
• Remove any distractions while driving, such as staying off the cell phone.
• And not to drink and drive.

Troopers also reminded residents of the "move over" law, which requires highway drivers to slow down to below the speed limit and, if possible, move into the next lane when passing a stationary emergency vehicle.

"We rely on our motoring public to serve as our partners in road safety. The potential for more traffic issues increases during the holiday weekend," said State Police Col. Stavros Mellekas in the announcement. "Lawful driving by all motor vehicle operators is vital to avoiding tragedies on Connecticut's highways."

According to statistics released by state police, there was one fatality in 2021 that was investigated by troopers, with none in 2020 and one in 2019, the last pre-pandemic Memorial Day weekend.

As far as accidents go, there were 377 in 2021 (56 with injuries); 175 in 2020 (no figure on injuries); and 341 in 2019 (52 with injuries).

Police also urged motorists to call 911 if they see a suspected drunk or erratic driver as "this is a true emergency."

For the Connecticut State Police's full Memorial Day weekend report, visit this link.