Vermont State Troopers increasing enforcement over holiday season

Vermont has experienced 58 traffic fatalities this year, impacting many of our families and their communities. In an attempt to spread awareness and keep drivers safe, a seatbelt campaign is planned for the heavily traveled holiday season to ensure highways remain safe through the remainder of the year.
The Vermont State Police will be participating in the national “Click It Or Ticket” campaign and Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). Operation CARE is a national campaign by state police agencies across the country that have joined together in the endeavor of reducing human suffering on highways, particularly during the national holidays.
The Vermont State Police priority remains focused on occupant protection and impaired and aggressive driving, which will be accomplished through organized data-driven patrols and checkpoints. Traffic enforcement is a critical mission to the Vermont State Police and remains the single most effective tool in saving lives and detecting and deterring criminal activity.
Although Vermont’s safety belt use rate is estimated at approximately 86 percent, too many are not wearing seatbelts, especially at night. Approximately 41 percent of all occupants killed so far in Vermont in 2016 were not properly restrained.
The Vermont State Police will also will have zero tolerance for those who choose to drive impaired by alcohol or other substances. Over 50 percent of all highway fatalities this year have involved substance impairment.
“Vermont State Police wants to save lives, potentially your life,” said VSP Traffic Safety Commander Lieut. John Flannigan. “That’s why we spread the message that driving under the influence and/or not using your seatbelt is unacceptable. We want you home safe as much as your family does. Think smart and plan on using a designated driver or alternate transportation, and please wear your seatbelt.”