As the first summer holiday approaches, the Michigan State Police (MSP) is reminding motorists to wear their safety belts and drive in a safe and responsible manner. Troopers will be paying special attention to the highways this weekend as part of Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). Additionally, troopers will join over 500 other law enforcement agencies in Michigan for the "Buckle Up or Pay Up, Click It or Ticket," safety belt mobilization.

"As in the past, troopers will take a zero tolerance approach to motorists who are operating their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, while also paying special attention to drivers and passengers alike who are not wearing their safety belts," stated Col. Peter C. Munoz, director of the MSP. "We want you to have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day holiday and that begins by getting to your destination safely."

The official Memorial Day holiday weekend begins at 6 p.m., Friday, May 25, and runs through midnight, Monday, May 28, 2007. Last year there were 17 fatal traffic crashes, which resulted in 18 deaths over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Of the 18 fatalities, five were unbuckled, and alcohol was a factor in one of the crashes.