June 29, 2006

East Lansing - The Michigan State Police will dedicate patrols to traffic enforcement this July 4^th holiday weekend in an effort to reduce traffic crashes.  Troopers in Michigan along with state police and highway patrol agencies around the nation and Canada will again be participating in the nationwide traffic safety initiative, Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). 

“Troopers throughout the state will take a zero tolerance approach to motorists operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, while also paying special attention to unbuckled motorists,” stated               Col. Peter C. Munoz, Director of the Michigan State Police.   “Please don’t drink and drive, be sure to wear your safety belt, and make this a pleasant and memorable July 4^th holiday.”   

The official July 4^th holiday weekend begins at 6 p.m., Friday, June 30, and runs through midnight, Tuesday, July 4, 2006.  Last year, there were 14 fatal traffic crashes that resulted in 18 deaths over the July 4^th holiday weekend.  

Note:  During the July 4^th holiday weekend, the media is encouraged to contact their local MichiganStatePolice post for the latest in holiday traffic information.     

Read more news releases from the Michigan State Police.