WILLISTON, Vt. — The Vermont State Police is kicking off Operation Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) on Friday, Aug. 31, and running through Monday, Sept. 3. Our goal is to prevent crashes, injuries and fatalities on Vermont’s roadways, while emphasizing the responsibility all drivers have when operating a vehicle.
So far this year, 42 people have died in traffic crashes on Vermont roadways, according to VSP. At least 14 of these, police said.
With the recent legalization of marijuana, the Vermont State Police wishes to remind the public that cannabis is an impairing substance that can double the risk of being involved in a crash. Driving under the influence of cannabis and other impairing substances remains illegal under Vermont’s DUI law.
“Impaired driving remains a significant problem on our highways. Every impaired driver is capable of taking lives, and the Vermont State Police will aggressively pursue and arrest these offenders,” said Lt. John Flannigan, Safety Programs commander. “To help all highway users enjoy a safe holiday weekend, Troopers will engage in visible patrols and checkpoints throughout the state.”
During this time, troopers will continue to participate in Operation STRIVE (Safe Travel on Roads In Vermont Everyday) and the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Vermont State Police will work closely with law enforcement agencies in Vermont and bordering the Green Mountain State to carry out this mission.
The Vermont State Police reminds motorists who will be on the roads during the holiday period to plan their trips carefully by allowing ample time to reach their destination, plan for rest stops along the way, obey the posted speed limit, don’t drive impaired, and make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained.
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