Memorial Day weekend traditionally starts off the summer travel season, and this weekend is shaping up to be the busiest in the Hoosier State in years. With the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 Race this weekend, along with lower fuel prices, travelers can expect a record number of motorists on the roadways.
Law enforcement throughout the state, including the Indiana State Police, will be participating in the Click it or Ticket Campaign and Operation CARE, or Combined Accident Reduction Effort. Troopers will be looking for aggressive drivers, impaired drivers, and those that don’t buckle up. According to NHTSA, (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) seatbelts reduce your risk of injury and death in a crash by 50%.
“The Indiana State Police welcome the thousands of visitors from across the nation and around the world coming to central Indiana this weekend to enjoy the ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing’.â€, stated ISP Superintendent Doug Carter. “I encourage everyone to buckle up for safety, just as the 33 drivers in the Indianapolis 500 do each time they are behind the wheel of a race car or their own car.
With the expected increase in traffic, it’s important that motorists follow the safety tips below:
•Obey all speed limits and always use your turn signals.
•Never drink and drive. Always have a designated driver.
•Make sure everyone is buckled up and children are properly restrained in child seats.
•Watch for and expect slowed or stopped traffic when approaching construction zones.
•Make sure you are well rested. A fatigued driver is as dangerous as an impaired driver.
•Avoid following too close. Use the two-second rule. Maintain following distance in construction zones.
•Don’t text and drive.
•SLOW DOWN AND MOVE OVER for emergency, utility and highway service vehicles.
Motorists are encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1. Give a vehicle description, location, and direction of travel. Never follow an impaired driver.
