Connecticut State Police Prepare for Holiday Highway Enforcement

Connecticut State Troopers remind motorists that combining careful planning with sensible driving will lead to safer holiday trips for all making a trek during the busiest travel week of the year.

With lower gasoline prices this month, many more travelers are expected to drive on Connecticut highways during the upcoming holidays.  State Police ask motorists to follow all driving laws, as their behavior on the roads is essential to keeping potential hazards at a distance. 

Simply putting traffic laws into practice will prevent accidents and save lives:   

• Drive the speed limit.
• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts.
• Signal when turning, changing lanes or taking an exit.
• Refrain from texting or using your phone.
• Never consume alcohol or prescription drugs before you get behind the wheel.
• Move over (when safe to do so) whenever law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances or tow trucks are occupying a lane. Please give them room to do their job efficiently and safely.

Drivers are also reminded to plan their trips with care:

• Fill the gas tank prior to your journey.
• Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid and tire pressure.
• Fully charge your cell phone.
• Carry winter blankets, drinking water and snacks
• Check traffic conditions before leaving home
• Keep a shovel and sand or salt in the trunk of your vehicle.

“Your cooperation is critical to ensuring the well-being of all who are driving our roads throughout the holiday week. Whenever you get behind the wheel, the safety of the motoring public must be your top priority,” said Dora B. Schriro, Commissioner of the Department of
Emergency Services and Public Protection.

“Our Troopers will be patrolling highways with a keen focus on those driving with distractions and those operating under the influence. Please be our partner in keeping the roadways safe for all by obeying all rules of the road,” noted Colonel Brian Meraviglia, Commanding Officer of the CT State Police.

State Police will operate roving patrols and conduct DUI checkpoints starting December 23, 2015, and continuing through January 3, 2016.  Please see list of patrols and checkpoints HERE.

Information provided by the Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection, Connecticut State Police, Public Information Office