FHP to target drunk drivers

The Florida Highway Patrol will participate in the national Drunk Driving “Over the Limit, Under Arrest” campaign now through Labor Day.

The Patrol will join thousands of other law enforcement and highway safety agencies across the nation to reduce the number of impaired drivers on Florida’s roadways in an effort to save lives, according to press release.

“Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk,” FHP Director Col. John Czernis said. “Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but also the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for impaired driving can be significant.

“Violators often face jail time, the loss of their driver license, higher insurance rates, attorney fees, time away from work and dozens of other expenses. Do not take the chance. Remember, if you are over the limit, you can expect to be under arrest.”

The campaign encompasses the Labor Day holiday weekend, which began Friday. The holiday caps off the summer season for many, and historically, travel increases with people driving to celebrate with friends and family.

In addition to the national enforcement campaign, the FHP will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) during the four-day holiday weekend. The operation involves all state police and highway patrol organizations across the United States.

All uniformed FHP personnel, including those normally assigned to administrative duties, will patrol interstates and other major state roads during the four-day holiday period. FHP Auxiliary and reserve troopers also will volunteer to augment patrol officers this weekend.

The FHP aims to increase its presence throughout Florida in an effort to deter traffic violations and to enhance services to motorists who break down while traveling or who need other assistance, according to the press release.

 Motorists are asked to dial *FHP (*347) to contact FHP to report an aggressive or impaired driver or to request roadside assistance.

Officials cautioned that Florida’s primary safety belt law authorizes law enforcement officers to stop and cite motorists solely for failure to buckle up. Troopers are also asking drivers to move over for stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights on the side of the road.

If you are unable to change lanes safely, slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit, or to 5 mph if the speed limit is 20 mph or less.