VA - Memorial Day Weekend News Story

Police watching for impaired drivers
Stepped up patrols will accompany this weekend's sunny holiday skies to keep motorists safe.
BY KIM O'BRIEN ROOT
928-6473
May 25, 2007
Just in time for Memorial Day, the mercury is expected to hover in the mid-80s and even push 90 this weekend.

That means sunny skies for all the cars expected to hit the highways on the weekend considered the start of the summer travel system. Even gas prices hovering around the $3-a-gallon mark aren't expected to deter travelers, said AAA.

With all those travelers - AAA predicted about 32.1 million will travel by motor vehicle - police will be stepping up patrols to keep things safe.

Starting today, more Virginia state troopers than usual will join local police in looking out for impaired drivers, speeders and those not wearing seat belts, said Virginia State Police Sgt. Tom Cunningham.

Over last year's Memorial Day weekend, state police cited more than 10,000 speeders, more than 3,000 reckless drivers and 1,200 safety belt violators. Eleven people died on state highways over that long weekend.

"There are going to be a lot more troopers out there and they're going to be vigilant and aggressive," Cunningham said.

Among the most important advice for drivers, said Cunningham: Don't drive distracted and slow down.

To check Virginia travel conditions, visit www.511virginia.org or call 511 from your cell phone.