Impaired, Distracted Drivers Target Of Extra VA Police Patrols This Memorial Day

VIRGINIA — Virginia State Police plan to increase patrols on state roads this Memorial Day weekend to crack down on distracted and impaired driving in an effort to reduce crash deaths, the agency said Thursday.

Starting Friday, Virginia State Police will kick off Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort, a program intended to reduce crashes, fatalities, and injuries due to impaired driving, speed, and failing to wear a seat belt.

During the campaign, all available state police troopers and supervisors will be on patrol, the agency said. The campaign will continue until midnight on Memorial Day.

"This is such a busy time of year for everyone, which is why it is imperative for drivers to slow down and remember to buckle up, avoid distractions and always drive sober," Col. Gary T. Settle, superintendent of the Virginia State Police, said in a statement.

Nearly 44 million people are expected to travel Memorial Day weekend, according to AAA's annual holiday travel forecast. The number marks a 4 percent increase compared to 2023 and is expected to be the second highest since 2005.

So far this year, 294 people have been killed in traffic crashes in Virginia, police said.

Last Memorial Day weekend, police recorded nine fatal traffic crashes statewide. Police also cited 771 people for seatbelt violations and 136 for child restraint violations over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

During last year's campaign, troopers also cited 4,990 speeders, 1,924 reckless drivers and arrested 89 impaired drivers. In addition, 169 felony arrests were made.

Virginia State Police also investigated a total of 1,846 traffic crashes statewide during the 2023 holiday weekend.

Funds generated from citations go directly to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which benefits public school construction, technology funding, and teacher retirement.