November 19, 2007

When Michigan motorists arrive safely at their holiday celebration this weekend, they can give thanks in part to the additional law enforcement officers who will be on patrol to look for drunk drivers and safety belt violations. Officers from hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the state will participate in the special patrols during the Thanksgiving holiday period.

The Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) administers federal traffic safety funds for high visibility enforcement to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities. More than 140 agencies in 30 counties are receiving federal funding for the Thanksgiving traffic enforcement activity.

"Many people will be traveling across Michigan to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with friends and family," OHSP Director Michael L. Prince said. "To make sure they arrive at their destinations safely, extra officers will be out on patrol looking specifically for drunk drivers and unbelted occupants."

High visibility enforcement will begin Nov. 21 and run through Nov. 30. Participating counties include: Allegan, Bay, Berrien, Calhoun, Clinton, Delta, Genesee, Grand Traverse, Hillsdale, Ionia, Iron, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Lapeer, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Mason, Midland, Monroe, Oakland, Ogemaw, Ottawa, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne.

During Thanksgiving weekend 2006, 21 people died in Michigan traffic crashes, according to the Michigan Department of State Police, Criminal Justice Information Center. Six, or 33 percent, of the 18 fatal crashes involved alcohol. Eight of the people killed were not wearing safety belts.

OHSP administers funds for drunk driving and safety belt enforcement throughout the year to agencies in 55 counties that cover 94 percent of Michigan's population. Each county determines when to schedule patrols based on crash data, officer availability and unique local needs.

For a list of Thanksgiving patrol dates, times and locations, please visit www.michigan.gov/ohsp.