LANSING, Mich. – As motorists across Michigan prepare for a Thanksgiving holiday filled with travel, food and family, the Michigan State Police (MSP) is conducting Michigan's largest Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) traffic enforcement initiative from Nov. 26-30.
"Our goal is to prevent traffic crashes and fatalities so every family can celebrate a safe holiday season," said Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, MSP director. "With extra troopers on patrol, make sure your Thanksgiving to-do list includes wearing a seat belt, designating a sober driver and avoiding distractions like talking on your phone while driving."
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Thanksgiving is the second deadliest holiday in Michigan for traffic crashes.
In 2013, there were 12 traffic fatalities during the Thanksgiving holiday; a 30 percent increase from nine fatalities in 2012.
Beginning Wednesday, troopers across the state will conduct high-visibility enforcement focusing on impaired driving, seat belt use, careless driving and speeding. The extra patrols are paid for with federal traffic safety funds coordinated by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.
In addition, the Michigan Department of Transportation will display safe driving reminders on its freeway message boards and at rest areas throughout the busy travel weekend, and Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson is supporting the effort by placing campaign materials in her branch offices.