Troopers Prepare For Labor Day Enforcement: CT State Police

MIDDLETOWN, CT – Connecticut State Troopers are reminding drivers to be prepared for more traffic on roadways throughout the state during the Labor Day Weekend, state police said.

State troopers will be out patrolling the highways and protecting the public all weekend as people continue to get together at the beach, backyard barbecues and local parks, which means more vehicles on the roads, state police said.

“As of today, the forecast is very promising – which makes outdoor gatherings welcome. The State Police expects traffic to be heavy during this long holiday weekend, so we ask drivers to remember that arriving safely should always be their number one priority,” Colonel Stavros Mellekas said, commanding officer of the Connecticut State Police.

Starting at midnight on Friday, Sept. 1, and continuing through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4, troopers from each of the agency’s 11 troops will be conducting roving DUI patrols, state police said.

“Drivers should plan for plenty of time to reach their destination. Expect road delays, proceed with caution and remember that following traffic rules is everyone’s responsibility,” Stavros said.

Connecticut State Police remind all motor vehicle operators:

• If you plan to consume alcohol or use cannabis, please designate a driver so that a tragedy does not mar this long holiday weekend. Drinking or using cannabis before getting behind the wheel is deadly, so planning ahead is crucial. If you are on the road and see what you suspect is an impaired driver, please call 911, as this is a true emergency.
• Always obey the Move Over Law, which requires “Any operator of a motor vehicle on a highway when approaching one or more emergency vehicles that are stationary or traveling significantly below the posted speed limit and located on the shoulder, lane or breakdown lane of such highway shall (1) immediately reduce speed to a reasonable level below the posted speed limit, and (2) if traveling in the lane adjacent to the shoulder, lane or breakdown lane containing such emergency vehicle, move such motor vehicle over one lane unless such movement would be unreasonable or unsafe.

Always, Troopers will consistently work toward preventing accidents on Connecticut’s roads and highways, state police said. Everyone is responsible for obeying the rules of the road: Buckle up, adhere to the speed limit, put down cell phones and concentrate on the primary job when driving behind the wheel.