The Highway Patrol along with the Wildlife Resources Commission are once again combining efforts to save lives this summer. Whether on the road or on the water, law enforcement officers across the state will be on the lookout for impaired drivers by conducting DWI checkpoints near recreational boating areas as well as public service announcements that educate motorists on the dangers of drinking and driving.
Operation “On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink & Drive,” is a multi-agency initiative that is designed to combine law enforcement resources to ensure that all motorists can safely travel on highway and waterways during the summer months. The Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be careful as they enjoy the upcoming summer months.
Last year, the Highway Patrol investigated 7 fatal collisions and 257 injury collisions during the July 4th holiday period. This included three fatal collisions and 48 injury collisions due to impaired driving.
“On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink & Drive” initially kicked off during the Memorial Day holiday weekend and was extremely successful. The initiative is focused on three key summer travel holiday weekends; Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Troopers along with Wildlife Resource officers will be conducting various driving while impaired checkpoints near parks and water recreational areas.
The operation will begin on Friday, July 3rd and conclude at midnight on Sunday, July 5th. The next and final phase of the operation is scheduled for Labor Day weekend.
Michael.D.Baker@ncdps.