And they may have forgotten some of the defensive driving tactics that they would normally use in town. Besides Labor Day, Operation Motorcide is scheduled for weekends involving Christmas, New Year's Day, Memorial Day and Independence Day. Officials do not use it in November. State troopers will be on the roads in full force looking for normal traffic violations and problems with new directives involving blood-alcohol content, seatbelt usage and increased speed for truck drivers. Starting Wednesday, all youngsters under age 15 must wear seatbelts.
More people can walk away from accidents now than ever before if they think about that safety issue.
Trucks will be allowed to go the same speed as cars, and Dean believes the traffic flow will be smoother after everyone becomes accustomed to the change. He said a grace period is not being provided for people who break the new seatbelt law. For travelers who will be driving long distances, the DPS recommends they stop every two hours. I'm not talking about a 30-minute break. The idea of fatigue driving is quickly becoming a leading factor in what causes accidents.