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NC Highway Patrol placing troopers every 20 miles along interstates during Thanksgiving

Published  November 20, 2018 12:23pm EST
U.S.
FOX 35 Orlando

CHARLOTTE, NC (FOX 46 WJZY) - As family and friends prepare for Thanksgiving, North Carolina State Highway Patrol said they're making preparations of their own in hopes of ensuring safe travel. 

According to AAA, Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays for travel across the country. In anticipation for the increased number of vehicles that will travel across North Carolina, troopers will be out in full force to monitor driver behavior. 

“Thanksgiving is a time for loved ones to once again unite together,” said Col. Glenn McNeill Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol. “Our mission is simple; reduce needless collisions in hopes of reporting zero fatalities statewide.”

LINK: NC Highway Patrol: I-85, I-77 targets during Thanksgiving weekend

Aligning with IACP’s Drive to Zero/Drive to Save Lives initiative, the NCSHP said they'll also participate in the Thanksgiving I-40 Challenge, a joint operation among seven other states along the I-40 corridor.

The campaign will take place on the busiest travel days of the holiday, kicking off on Wednesday, November 21 and concluding Sunday, November 25. 

During the event, troopers will be placed every 20 miles along the major interstate. 

Drivers can assist with safe travel by following a few simple tips:

  • Plan Ahead - Expect delays and plan to use alternate routes
  • Reduce Speed - Speeding is still the leading cause of traffic collisions
  • Increase Following Distances – A two-second lead time among vehicles is encouraged
  • Avoid Distracted Driving – Driver focus should be solely on driving
  • Never Drive Impaired – Plan ahead; designate a sober driver, us a taxi or contact a ride service
  • Lane Clearance - If involved in a collision without injury, remove vehicles to shoulder