CT State Police Set DUI Checkpoints, Extra Patrols For Labor Day Weekend

Editor’s note: We published this story earlier in the week, but here it is again in case you missed it.

More than 35 million drivers are expected to travel across the United States this upcoming Labor Day Weekend, with the vast majority of them traveling by car.

Connecticut State Troopers want to remind motorists to expect heavy traffic, exercise caution, allow extra time to reach their destination, don’t talk or text and drive while using a handheld mobile device, and set GPS destinations prior to traveling.

Connecticut State Troopers will be concentrating their enforcement efforts on drunk driving, speeding, seatbelt violations, and distracted driving during the entire Labor Day Weekend.

These dangerous driving behaviors claim the lives of our citizens every year. Troopers will utilize both traditional and nontraditional patrol vehicles on the roads searching for reckless and intoxicated drivers. Troopers will man sobriety checkpoints, increase roving patrols and utilize the State Police Breath Alcohol Testing Mobile Unit (BAT Mobile).

From Sept. 4 through 7, roving patrols from Troop C will be on Routes 30, 32, 44, 74, 83, 190, 195, and Interstate 84 in the towns of Ashford, Ellington, Mansfield, Somers, Stafford, Tolland, Union, and Willington.

During that same time period, roving patrols from Troop H will be on Interstates 84 and 91 in Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester and Windsor.

“Throughout the Labor Day weekend, you can count on additional Troopers to be on patrol on state roadways, ready to respond to motorists in need and to address those drivers who may pose a hazard to others,” said Dora B. Schriro, Commissioner of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection in a prepared statement. “State Troopers will do everything possible to make this the safest and most enjoyable holiday weekend for everyone.”

A final reminder to all drivers: anyone who is consumes alcohol should never get behind the wheel; establish a designated driver before your holiday weekend activities begin. There are no second chances for first time offenders. An Ignition Interlock Device can be installed on your vehicle if you are arrested for DWI and your driver’s license is suspended.

If you see a suspected drunk driver, or hazardous driver, call 911 as this is a true emergency.

Photo credit: Tim Jensen