Upon the approach of a busy Thanksgiving Day and holiday weekend, Troop A wants to remind motorists to drive carefully and make it a safe holiday for everyone traveling on Louisiana’s roadways. The rise of holiday gatherings, parties, and shopping brings with it an increase in traffic on our highways. Unfortunately, this increase in traffic also leads to increased crashes and fatalities in our area. Historically, Troopers have seen an increase in the instances of crashes caused by impaired drivers during this time of year as well.

There will be additional Troopers on the highways this holiday season ensuring the safety of the motorists. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be tolerated and those offenders will be arrested for DWI and brought to jail. Troopers will also be issuing citations for hazardous violations, such as following too closely and careless operation. Louisiana law now requires seat belt use in every position in the vehicle. Troopers will continue to focus on unrestrained occupants and unrestrained children.

Troopers would also like to remind motorists of the importance of making the long weekend a safe one by being prepared for travel. A sleepy driver is an impaired driver. Sleepiness while driving is as dangerous as texting while driving. Prepare for travel by being well-rested, sharing driving time with others, keeping each other company while driving, and leaving early. There will be more traffic on the roadways, so leaving early will allow you to get to your destination on time without having to rush.

Please be safe on our roadways and have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving Holiday! If you see any unsafe acts, sleepy or impaired drivers, or aggressive driving, you are encouraged to report it by dialing *LSP (577) from your mobile phone.

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Tpr Russell G. Graham II
Public Affairs Unit
Louisiana State Police – Troop A