Captain Jason Berry
Government and Media Relations
(360) 596-4010 – office
(360) 596-4015 – fax
http://www.wsp.wa.gov
*** For Immediate Release***
Date:
May 28, 2010
Contact:
Trooper Krista Hedstrom
Phone:
360-405-6613
Cell: 360-265-1332
E-mail:
krista.hedstrom@wsp.wa.gov
WSP Increasing Patrols over Memorial Day Weekend
The Washington State Patrol is preparing for the Memorial Day weekend by placing extra troopers along our state routes. Troopers assigned to District 8 will be dedicating themselves to enforcement of traffic laws related to speed, seatbelt use and impaired driving. In addition, as traffic volumes increase due to holiday travelers, troopers will be readily available to assist as needed.
Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the year. Counties located throughout District 8 are well known as popular tourist areas and see increased traffic during holiday weekends. The Washington State Ferries are used heavily over holiday weekends, and the WSP encourages motorists to be patient and prepare for delays.
While the Washington State Patrol recognizes that Memorial Day weekend is a time when people get together and celebrate, impaired drivers often turn the celebration into tragedy. We encourage people to enjoy their celebration, but most importantly we want people to make smart decisions so they are alive to enjoy the next celebration.
The number one objective of the troopers in District 8 is to make sure the roadways are safe for the motoring public. With so many extra travelers on the roadway, it becomes critical for drivers to buckle up, drive sober and obey the speed limits.
Please consider the following tips to ensure all motorists enjoy a safe Memorial Day weekend:
- Plan ahead by designating a sober driver if you plan to drink.
- Prepare for delays by allowing yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Always remember to buckle up, and make sure passenger do, too.
- Pay attention and obey posted speed limits.
- Stay focused! Inattention is often a main contributor in collisions.
District 8 will have additional troopers in the following counties over the course of the weekend:
Grays Harbor (4), Pacific and Wahkiakum (5), Jefferson and Clallam (6-7), Mason (4) and Kitsap (8).