May 24, 2002 - Michigan State Police today announced stepped-up patrols for the Memorial Day holiday weekend in conjunction with Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). In addition, State Police troopers will be joining other law enforcement agencies in Michigan for the "Click It or Ticket" mobilization, focusing on the use of safety belts.

Operation C.A.R.E. began July 4, 1977, as a collaborative effort between the Indiana State Police and Michigan State Police. It now includes all 50 states, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec, as well as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Since 1979, Operation C.A.R.E. has concentrated its efforts on the four major holiday weekends - Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving.

"It is the responsibility of all people who operate motor vehicles to not drink and drive, to obey the posted speed limits, to wear their safety belts, and to drive with courtesy at all times," said Col. Stephen D. Madden, director of the Michigan State Police.

The official Memorial Day weekend begins at 6 p.m., Friday, May 24, and runs until midnight, Monday, May 27. Last year over the Memorial Day weekend there were 16 fatal traffic crashes on Michigan roadways that resulted in 19 deaths. Of those who died where seatbelt use was known, 70 percent were not wearing safety belts. Alcohol was a factor in 25 percent of the crashes.

"Summer should be a time of fun, not tragedy," said Lt. Col. Tadarial J. Sturdivant, deputy director of the Uniform Services Bureau, Michigan State Police. "Enjoy the many excellent attractions our state has to offer, please drive safely, obey the speed limit, and wear your safety belts."

Please Note: We encourage the media to contact their local Michigan State Police post during the Memorial Day weekend for the latest in holiday traffic information.