May 24, 2004

East Lansing - Michigan State Police troopers together with other state police and highway patrol agencies across the United States and Canada will concentrate their efforts toward improved traffic safety during the Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) nationwide All-American Buckle-Up Week. This initiative will run from 12 a.m., Monday, May 24, through midnight, Monday, May 31, 2004.

Operation C.A.R.E. began in 1977 as a collaborative effort between the Indiana State Police and Michigan State Police making it one of the nations’ longest running safety initiatives. It now includes all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, the Quebec Police Force, and the Virgin Islands.

Michigan State Police troopers will also be joining other law enforcement agencies in Michigan for the "Click It or Ticket/Buckle Up or Pay Up" mobilization, focusing on the use of safety belts.

"Operation C.A.R.E., in conjunction with "Click It or Ticket/Buckle-Up or Pay Up," uses traffic education along with traffic enforcement to increase safety belt usage, as well as promote safe driving habits by motorists," stated Col. Tadarial Sturdivant, Director, Michigan State Police.

"This is the start of what is hopefully a safe and enjoyable summer season for Michigan’s residents and guests," said Lt. Col. Peter Munoz, Deputy Director, Michigan State Police. "Enjoy the many attractions our beautiful state has to offer, please drive safely, obey the speed limit, and wear your safety belts."

Note: During All-American Buckle-Up week, the media is encouraged to contact their local Michigan State Police posts for the latest in holiday traffic information.