BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York State Police will be cracking down on impaired driving this weekend with the Thanksgiving holiday approaching on Thursday.
Traffic enforcement periods begin November 22 and will go until November 26.
“Every year there are preventable tragedies and a wake of victims left behind because of the decisions made by reckless and impaired drivers. As we drive throughout the state to see our family and friends this holiday season, we need to make safe driving imperative. If you’re celebrating with alcohol, I encourage you to designate a sober driver and plan for a safe ride home. I thank the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee for their support and collaboration on this pivotal enforcement. Our troopers remain committed to ensuring everyone’s safety and by motorists making the right choices, together we can prevent needless tragedies on our roadways," said New York State Police Acting Superintendent Dominick L. Chiumento.
There will be statewide fixed sobriety check points that will target distracted drivers by using unmarked patrol vehicles. It will help to better locate drivers talking or texting on handheld devices.
State Police reported that during Thanksgiving 2022 troopers arrested 213 drivers for DWI, issued 4,757 speeding tickets, and 425 tickets for distracted driving.
The New York State Police, GTSC and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have these tips for those going out or traveling during the Thanksgiving weekend.
- Plan a safe way home before the fun begins
- Before drinking, designate a sober driver
- If you’re impaired, use a taxi or ride sharing service, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation
- Use your community’s sober ride program
- If you suspect a driver is drunk or impaired on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement
- If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely
The Governors Traffic Safety Committee also reminds those that "Have a Plan" mobile app is available for people to utilize to locate and call a taxi or rideshare service, along with a designated driver list.
To learn more visit www.nyspnews.com