Law enforcement agencies across New York State, including local departments in Rockland County, are gearing up for a special traffic enforcement initiative during the Thanksgiving holiday period. Running from Saturday, November 23, 2024, through Sunday, December 1, 2024, this initiative aims to crack down on unsafe driving behaviors and ensure safer roadways during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James highlighted the significance of the effort, stating, “A common threat on our roads that we continually fight is impaired and drunk driving. Traffic enforcement is imperative to everyone’s well-being and the goal of making this holiday a safe one. The New York State Police proudly joins our law enforcement partners in the ongoing effort to discourage, detect, and apprehend impaired and drunk drivers.”
The enforcement initiative will include increased patrols and fixed sobriety checkpoints across the state. Additionally, officers will utilize Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles to identify distracted drivers using handheld devices. These unmarked vehicles blend into traffic but are equipped with emergency lights to conduct stops when necessary.
The Thanksgiving holiday traditionally sees elevated traffic volumes and widespread alcohol consumption, making it a particularly dangerous time on the roads. During the 2023 holiday period, state troopers arrested 178 drivers for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), issued 4,349 speeding tickets, and cited 362 drivers for distracted driving.
Locally, Police Departments will deploy additional patrols beginning Wednesday evening, November 27, 2024. These efforts will specifically target impaired driving, speeding, and aggressive or distracted driving. Chief John J. Gould Jr from the Haverstraw Police. emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “Impaired and drunk driving remain significant threats to the safety of our roadways. Traffic enforcement is crucial to protecting our community and ensuring this holiday is a safe one for all.”
The enforcement initiative is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) and supported by the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation. Motorists are encouraged to take advantage of the “Have a Plan” mobile app, which provides tools to locate taxis or rideshare services, designate sober drivers, and report impaired drivers. The app also offers information about DWI laws and penalties.
Officials are urging drivers to make responsible choices this holiday season. Drunk and drugged driving not only endangers lives but can also lead to severe legal and financial consequences, including license suspension, arrest, fines, and increased insurance rates. With the average cost of a DWI arrest reaching up to $10,000, the risks are both personal and financial.
By planning ahead, designating sober drivers, and staying alert, New Yorkers can help prevent tragedies on the road and ensure a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday for all. Law enforcement officials remind drivers that safety is a shared responsibility and urge everyone to make smart decisions behind the wheel.