Michigan State Police Will Add Extra Patrols During Thanksgiving Weekend

In an effort to promote safety on Michigan roads, local and state law enforcement agencies will increase traffic patrols throughout the Thanksgiving holiday this year.

As part of the nationwide Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort), state troopers will be targeting unsafe drivers, according to a Michigan State Police press release.

"Throughout the weekend, troopers will be watching for unsafe driving behaviors, such as speeding, driving under the influence and failing to use passenger restraints," Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSp said. "Our goal is to reduce traffic crashes and fatalities on Michigan's roadways during the Thanksgiving travel period so families can enjoy the holidays together."

The official Thanksgiving weekend begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday and runs through midnight on Sunday, Etue said. During that time, troopers will be heavily patrolling Washtenaw County highways and roads. AAA Michigan said an estimated 1.3 million Michigan residents will travel 50 miles or more from home during the 2011 Thanksgiving holiday period.

“Last year, nine fatal traffic crashes resulted in 10 deaths over the holiday period. Of those who died, five were not wearing safety belts, and alcohol was a known factor in three of the crashes,” Etue said.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/msp