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In an effort to ensure road safety during the holiday season, police across New York are intensifying patrols to crack down on dangerous drivers. The campaign, which runs from November 23 through December 1, targets motorists who are impaired or driving recklessly.
The initiative is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and is part of an annual series of alcohol- and drug-related enforcement campaigns. During last year's Thanksgiving holiday period, over 35,000 tickets were issued for offenses including distracted driving, DWI, and speeding.
Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her gratitude to the troopers and local law enforcement for their efforts to keep the roads safe during the holidays. She urged drivers to stay alert, stay sober, and move over when they see vehicles stopped on the side of the road.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James echoed the Governor's sentiments, stating that traffic enforcement is crucial to everyone's well-being and the goal of making the holiday a safe one. The State Police will supplement regular patrols statewide, including fixed sobriety checkpoints and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) patrol vehicles to better locate drivers talking or texting on handheld devices.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation have also reminded motorists about their “Have a Plan” mobile app, which enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi or rideshare service and program a designated driver list.