As the Thanksgiving holiday nears, the Indiana State Police (ISP) is ramping up patrol visibility to ensure safe travel across the state. Beginning November 16, ISP will launch its annual “Safe Family Travel” campaign, aimed at reducing accidents by cracking down on impaired and aggressive driving and promoting seatbelt use during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
Focus on Safety During Peak Travel
With holiday gatherings drawing millions to the roads, ISP is preparing for what could be a challenging travel period. The “Safe Family Travel” campaign is backed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and funded through grants from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI). The effort is part of a larger national initiative to reduce traffic incidents during peak holiday travel times.
The ISP has made clear its goals: curbing reckless driving and enforcing seatbelt laws to minimize the risk of accidents. The agency’s approach combines high-visibility patrols with active reminders to drivers about safe driving habits.
Advice for Safe Holiday Travel
Devon McDonald, Executive Director of the ICJI, shared some simple yet crucial advice for those planning to drive over the Thanksgiving holiday: “Slow down, avoid distractions, designate a sober driver, and buckle up.” McDonald emphasized that these precautions could make the difference between a safe journey and a tragic accident. For holiday travelers, it’s essential to allow for extra time, especially with potential traffic and winter weather conditions that may impact road safety.
ISP also recommends checking the latest road and weather conditions before setting out. With unpredictable November weather, proper planning can help motorists avoid unexpected delays or dangerous road conditions.
Campaign Strategy and Funding
The “Safe Family Travel” campaign is part of a coordinated state and national effort to address holiday traffic hazards. The NHTSA has allocated federal funds through the ICJI to help ISP increase its patrols, invest in additional resources, and promote safe driving messages. The campaign underscores the importance of a proactive approach to traffic safety, particularly during times when accidents and impaired driving incidents are most likely to increase.
Reporting Unsafe Driving
Motorists who witness impaired or aggressive driving on the road are urged to report it immediately to local law enforcement or by calling 911. Early reporting can prevent potential accidents and help law enforcement quickly address any immediate threats to road safety.
