The Arizona Department of Public Safety is prepared for an increase in highway traffic as thousands of drivers take to the road for the long Memorial Day weekend.  Last year at this time 17 people lost their lives in a total of 14 crashes across Arizona over the Memorial Day weekend.

During this year’s holiday weekend, DPS will increase enforcement efforts during peak collision times.  This coincides with DPS’ participation in Operation Combined Accident Reduction Effort (CARE) – a national initiative that relies on state enforcement agencies to reduce highway collisions, especially during holiday periods.

For more information on Operation CARE visit:  www.careofnorthamerica.org

Speeding – DPS will deploy mobile Photo Enforcement units throughout the state especially on stretches of highway where serious injury or fatal collisions have occurred.  The goal is to get drivers to slow down. Speeding greatly increases the chances of a collision as it reduces the amount of time a motorist will have to react to a hazard one.  Following the speed limits will decrease the chances of serious injury or death in a collision.

Impaired Driving- If you plan to drink this holiday make sure you have a designated driver or plan to call a cab.  Once you start drinking your ability to make sound decisions decreases with each drink.  Impaired driving extends beyond just the consumption of alcohol.  Never use illegal drugs or drive while on prescription medications that may impair your driving ability.

Safety Restraints – A safety restraint will ensure that you stop with your car.  Without it, you could be thrown from the vehicle if you are involved in a collision.

Attentiveness/Fatigue – Make sure you make your calls and text messages before you drive.  If your phone rings let it go to voicemail and call the person back when you have reached your destination.  Don’t drive fatigued! It’s important to be well rested before getting behind the wheel.