Crime & Safety

State Police Add Patrols Through Jan. 1

They will be stepping up enforcement for speeding, driving while impaired, aggressive driving, texting violations, seat belt, and child restraint violations.

State troopers will be out en force during he new years holiday, Rhode Island State Police Colonel Steven G. O’Donnell announced today. The force will be stepping up enforcement for speeding, driving while impaired, aggressive driving, texting violations, seat belt, and child restraint violations. These patrols are in addition to regular patrols and are targeting impaired and reckless operators. The goal is to make our highways safer and everyone’s New Year a happy and memorable one, O'Donnell said in a release.   During the holiday weekend, there is an expected an increase in the volume of traffic along the highways throughout the state. Motorists can immediately report dangerous drivers or hazardous roadway conditions by dialing *77 on their cellular phones. It is a free call. The Rhode Island State Police requests the assistance and cooperation of the motoring public to assure a safe holiday. To accomplish this goal, motorists are asked to: Obey all motor vehicle laws. Don’t drink and drive. Be patient and allow extra time for delays that may occur due to holiday traffic. Pay attention to road and weather conditions and adjust driving accordingly. Buckle up. It’s the law and will be strictly enforced during the holiday period. The Rhode Island State Police is urging all motorists to help reduce injuries and the tragic loss of lives on our highways by using your seatbelts and driving in a responsible manner.


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