Full Notification

Memorial Day weekend traditionally starts off the summer travel season, and this season is shaping up to be the busiest in years. Lieutenant Tom Dujmovich, Commander of the Pendleton State Police Post, would like to remind all motorists that there will be extra troopers on the roadways this upcoming holiday weekend during the “Click it or Ticket” Campaign, to help insure safe family travel.

The AAA Hoosier Motor Club predicts 823,749 residents will travel 50 miles or more this holiday weekend, up from 781,896 last year. The increase is expected to be the highest volume for holiday travel since 2005. The reasons given for the increase in travel are lower gas prices and a stronger employment market.

With the expected increase in traffic, it’s important that motorists follow the safety tips below:

• Obey all speed limits and always use your turn signals.
• Never drink and drive-If celebrating make sure to have a designated driver.
• Make sure everyone is buckled up and children are properly restrained in child seats.
• Always watch for and expect slowed or stopped traffic ahead, especially when approaching construction zones.
• When stopped in traffic be watchful of traffic approaching from behind and be ready to take evasive action if it appears traffic is approaching too fast to stop.
• If you’re planning to travel a long distance, make sure you are well rested.   A fatigued driver is as dangerous as an impaired driver.
• Avoid tailgating.  Remember the two-second rule, and always increase following distance in construction zones.
• Leave early anticipating heavy traffic, and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.
• Remember to ALWAYS SLOW DOWN AND MOVE OVER for emergency, utility and highway service vehicles.

The Pendleton District covers the eight counties of Delaware, Madison, and Randolph; Henry, Wayne, Union, Rush and Fayette counties.  Motorists are encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1. Give a vehicle description, location, and direction of travel. Never follow an impaired driver.

For summer travel safety tips please visit http://www.in.gov/isp/2968.htm