Gov. Kathy Hochul announced an enforcement initiative targeting impaired driving during Thanksgiving travel in New York.
The initiative, funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, runs from Nov. 22 to Nov. 30. It aims to curb impaired and reckless driving, including violations of the Move Over Law. Hochul emphasized the importance of staying alert and sober during the holiday season.
“Thanksgiving is the beginning of the busy holiday season with thousands of people traveling to gather and celebrate with friends and family,” said Hochul. “Those celebrations should not be marred by tragedy caused by impaired or reckless driving on our roadways.”
State Police Superintendent Steven G. James highlighted the importance of driver safety during the holidays. He said, “Every year, there are preventable tragedies and a wake of victims left behind because of the decisions made by reckless and impaired drivers.”
Enforcement efforts
The State Police will use fixed sobriety checkpoints and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) patrol vehicles to spot distracted drivers. These unmarked vehicles blend in with traffic but are recognizable as emergency vehicles when needed.
Construction lane closures on New York State highways will be suspended from Nov. 26 to Dec. 1 to ease travel. However, some work may continue behind barriers or for emergencies.
Travel resources
Motorists can use the 511NY app for real-time traffic updates and alerts. The New York State Thruway’s 27 service areas are open, offering facilities and navigation assistance.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “By lifting construction restrictions during one of the busiest weekends for travel, we’re helping all New Yorkers spend less time in traffic and more time with one another.”
The “Have a Plan” mobile app is available to help New Yorkers find taxis or rideshares and report impaired drivers. The app also provides information on DWI laws and penalties.