FHP press release for holidays.

[Alicia Leonard]

Save Lives, Save Money, Save Yourself a Ticket. Slow Down!

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Highway Patrol is stepping up its enforcement operations to prepare for the Labor Day holiday weekend.

“The men and women of the Florida Highway Patrol will be teaming up with law enforcement officers across the state to provide the safest possible driving environment for our visitors and residents during the Labor Day holiday driving period,” stated Colonel John Czernis, director of the Florida Highway Patrol.

In order to promote a safe holiday experience for everyone, the Patrol statewide will increase visibility and enforcement efforts beginning at 12:01 a.m. August 29, through midnight September 1. The agency will target three specific causes of highway fatalities: speeding, impaired driving and failure to use occupant restraints.

“We want the public to understand that drunk driving is no accident. It's one of Florida’s most often committed crimes and accounts for one-third of all traffic fatalities. If you choose to drink and drive during this Labor Day holiday period, law enforcement officers will catch and arrest you,” added Colonel Czernis.

By enhancing its efforts, the Patrol aims to increase public compliance of traffic laws and to provide enhanced services to motorists who find themselves in need of assistance. In addition, Auxiliary and Reserve troopers will be volunteering their time to assist regular troopers during the heightened holiday enforcement weekend.

Motorists are reminded to use their cellular phones safely. FHP urges all drivers to call *FHP (*347) to report drunk or aggressive drivers. They also can use this number if their vehicle breaks down or they need assistance. Motorists should dial 911 during emergencies.

For real-time traffic and road condition reports, as well as maps and other safety tips, FHP urges the public to visit www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/. Florida drivers also can call 511 on their cell phone for up-to-the-minute updates on traffic congestion, road construction, lane closures, severe weather and travel delays on Interstates and major highways.

The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles encourages anyone with a valid Florida driver license or identification card to go online to www.flhsmv.gov and enter their emergency contact information. This vital information gives law enforcement immediate access to this information in cases of an emergency, which makes it easier for them to contact a family member or friend.