Speed crackdown this weekend
STEVE LYTTLE
slyttle@charlotteobserver.com

The North Carolina Highway Patrol says it will step up patrols this Memorial Day weekend in an effort to crack down on speeders and to make travel safer.

Troopers will concentrate on interstate freeways and major four-lane highways from Friday through Monday across the state.

"We want to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend," said Col. W. Fletcher Clay, commander of the highway patrol. "Reduce your chances of becoming involved in a collision by obeying the speed laws."

Clay said the Highway Patrol is involved in two other special efforts this weekend -- Operation Click It or Ticket, an effort to increase seat belt use; and a program to enforce the state's litter laws.

Tougher littering laws passed by the N.C. General Assembly can result in fines of up to $1,000 for first-time offenders, and up to $2,000 (with 50 hours of community service) for repeat offenders.