NY State Police Ramping Up Patrols For Safe Thanksgiving Travel

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest traveling holidays, especially on the roads. In anticipation, Governor Kathy Hochul has increased police patrols to ensure unsafe drivers are off New York roads.

This special enforcement period, supported by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, will be active from November 22 to November 26, focusing on impaired and distracted driving, as well as enforcing the state’s Move Over Law.

Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of safety during this busy travel time and urged drivers to prioritize following road rules. State police will join forces with local law enforcement, including sobriety checkpoints and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles to locate distracted drivers.

Acting New York State Police Superintendent Dominick Chiumento stressed the need for safe driving, particularly during the holiday season, citing preventable tragedies caused by reckless and impaired drivers. He encouraged those celebrating with alcohol to designate a sober driver and plan a safe ride home.

In the previous crackdown in 2022, troopers arrested 213 drivers for Driving While Intoxicated, issued almost 4,600 speeding tickets, and another 425 for distracted driving.

Governor Hochul also reminded motorists about the "Have a Plan" mobile app, available for smartphones. The app helps locate taxis or rideshare services, creates a designated driver list, and provides information on DWI laws and penalties. Driving under the influence may result in arrest, jail time, and significant fines and attorney fees. Stay safe on the roads and have a Happy Thanksgiving.