The Mississippi Highway Patrol will begin the 2017 Labor Day travel enforcement period on Friday, Sept. 1, at 6 p.m. and conclude Monday, Sept. 4, at midnight.
“Due to anticipation of heavy traffic and inclement weather associated with Tropical Storm Harvey, state troopers will place emphasis on saturation patrols to combat speeding and reckless driving,” said Capt. Johnny Poulos, director of the MHP Public Affairs Division.
He noted that motorists planning to travel during the holiday weekend are urged to use lower speeds when adverse weather conditions are encountered.
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected in regards to driving visibility and tires should have the proper tread depth to prevent hydroplaning, Poulos added.
“Additional safety checkpoints will be established to promote seat belt usage and remove impaired drivers from the roadways,” Poulos explained.
He said drivers should avoid text messaging or any other driver distraction that could endanger lives while traveling.
During the 2016 Labor Day enforcement period, MHP investigated 170 crashes, including one fatality.
“We’re hoping all motorists and families will enjoy the last holiday weekend of the summer and arrive at their destinations safely,” Poulos said.
Meanwhile, the Mississippi Department of Transportation also offers the following tips to help make Labor Day weekend travel safer for everybody:
• Slow down. Always avoid speeding, especially when driving through designated work zones.
• Buckle up. Guarantee a safer trip by fastening your seat belt. Besides, it’s the law.
• Do not drink and drive. Those who plan on drinking alcoholic beverages should also have a designated driver to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Watch out for motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians, children and animals while traveling the roadways.
“Safety is a top priority,” said Melinda McGrath, MDOT executive director. “There are ways to ensure travel safety yourself, and MDOT has resources to make traveling safer and easier. MDOT offers free travel media properties — MDOTtraffic.com, MDOT Traffic app and Mississippi 511 — all for your convenience over the holiday weekend.”
