Going to Vermont this fourth of July weekend? Travel safely. As the holiday approaches, the state's police officers are stepping up patrols on roadways to make sure drivers aren't impaired while behind the wheel.
The initiative is part of a joint collaboration with several other state agencies to prevent accidents and deaths in thoroughfares throughout the green mountain state, according to the municpalitiy's officials. The effort, named "Operation Combined Accident Reduction Effort (Operation CARE)," allows law enforcement officials to determine the type of condition a driver is in when they journey through one of the program's police-run safety checkpoints. The safety stops are based on analysis from previous deadly crashes on the state's roadways.
"We've made great strides saving lives through enforcement, education, engineering safer roads and an improved ability to render medical aid immediately following a crash," stated Lt. Garry Scott, a traffic safety commander with the Vermont State Police. "However we have to work harder and more effectively in driving towards zero deaths on Vermont roadways. "
Scott is also requesting "that Vermonters take care this 4th of July to slow down, designate a sober driver, and buckle up for your safety; and for the safety of everyone on the roads."
Vermont state police have dealt with 17 traffic fatalities in 17 crashes in 2014, according to state officials. Five people possibly sped. Police believe another four drove while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Two others were not wearing seatbelts.
The northern New England state is not the only government stepping up safety measures. The state of New York is also joining the cause with its own Fourth of July safety initiative, according to the Associated Press.
The Empire State's governor Andrew Cuomo previously announced 500 electronic message boards will advise commuters not to drive drunk throughout the east coast state's roadways. Also as part of the initiative, police officers will provide resources to teens and young adults to help prevent underage drinking.
Over 10,000 drivers received traffic tickets over the Fourth of July weekend in the state in 2013.
