The State Highway Patrol is preparing for the holiday season and for the increased number of roadway users expected across our state. During the coming weeks, the Patrol will proactively target dangerous driver behaviors to include speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 48 million people will travel by automobile across our nation representing an increase from last year’s predictions. AAA relates this increase in travelers within our country due to relaxed travel restrictions. Accordingly, members of the State Highway Patrol will increase visibility on highly traveled corridors to promote safe driving habits.
“The safe travel of residents and visitors to our state is our highest priority this holiday season,” said Col. Freddy L. Johnson Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol. “By all roadway users joining in a commitment to safe driving, we can reach our ultimate goal of no lives lost due to preventable occurrences.”
The NCSHP is partnering with the North Carolina Governors Highway Safety Program for the 2021 Thanksgiving “Click It or Ticket” campaign during this holiday period. The campaign began today, and runs through Sunday, Nov. 28 with the goal of reducing preventable injuries and deaths in collisions due to a vehicle occupant’s failure to use a restraint device.
The provided safe driving principles can help to ensure a safe holiday travel period:
- Don’t drive distracted. Avoid technological devices while operating a vehicle.
- Ensure all occupants are properly restrained in weight appropriate restraint devices, day or night.
- Never drive while impaired. Have a plan and take advantage of the multiple ride sharing avenues available.
- Obey the speed limit. The faster you drive, the longer it takes to stop your vehicle.
- Check traffic conditions before starting your travel at www.DriveNC.Gov
As always, motorists can contact the SHP by dialing *HP(47) if law enforcement assistance is needed.
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