During the upcoming Labor Day weekend, the Michigan State Police (MSP) is reminding motorists to make safe driving choices.
Troopers will join their counterparts from across the country in the international traffic safety initiative, Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Efforts). In conjunction with Operation C.A.R.E., troopers across the state, along with approximately 150 other law enforcement agencies in Michigan, will be participating in the national safety campaign "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over."
"As part of Operation C.A.R.E. and the 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign, we are taking a zero tolerance approach to those driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Troopers will also focus on distracted driving behaviors and motorists not wearing their seat belts," stated Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP. "We want you to have an enjoyable holiday weekend that includes getting to your destination safely. Please make responsible decisions while driving."
The official Labor Day weekend begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 1, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4. Last year, 10 fatal traffic crashes resulted in 10 deaths during the Labor Day holiday weekend.
The MSP is reminding motorists that the Mackinac Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic starting at 6:30 a.m. and lasting until noon on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4. As a result, northbound I-75 at exit 337 on the south end of the bridge and southbound US-2 and I-75 at exit 344 in the Upper Peninsula will close during that time as well. It should be expected that traffic flow in northern Michigan will be impacted to some degree. Troopers will be at various traffic points to monitor and assist motorists as much as possible.
Operation C.A.R.E. began in 1977 as a collaborative effort between the MSP and the Indiana State Police, and is one of the nation's longest-running traffic safety initiatives. It focuses on deterring the three main causes of highway fatalities: aggressive driving, impaired driving and failure to use occupant restraints.
State police and highway patrol agencies from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Quebec Police Force and the U.S. Virgin Islands will be participating in this lifesaving traffic safety initiative. Beginning this year, Operation C.A.R.E. includes participation from police agencies affiliated with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) as well.
Published: Fri, Sep 01, 2017
