FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 11/16/2024 

CONTACT: Sheriff Brent A. Miller, (812)883-5999, 801 S. Jackson St Suite 100 

Salem, IN 47167  

 

Police ramping up patrols during Thanksgiving travel period 

 

Salem, Indiana - While people get their Thanksgiving travel plans ready, the Washington County Sheriff's Department is getting ready to increase patrol visibility as part of the annual Safe Family Travel campaign 

 

The campaign, which starts November 16, focuses on impaired driving, aggressive driving, and proper use of seat belts. During the campaign, officers will work overtime conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols designed to discourage impaired driving and promote seat belt use. The high-visibility enforcement campaign is funded with grants provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI). 

 

"We're anticipating another busy travel season this year, so for those sharing the road, remember; slow down, avoid distractions while driving, designate a sober driver, and buckle up," said Devon McDonald, ICJI Executive Director. "We want everyone to make it to their holiday events safely." 

 

According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving has tragically become associated with Thanksgiving Eve, with some people turning it into a night of drinking. Drivers who intend on drinking that evening should plan ahead and secure a designated sober driver. 

 

"When you get on the road, you are pledging to use safe driving practices to keep all road users safe," said Miller Anyone heading out to a bar or party must make a commitment to stay sober for the night if they are driving, or arrange for a sober ride home before they begin to drink alcohol. 

 

It is also important to wear a seat belt, put away the distractions and follow posted speed limits. Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions before each trip and to leave with plenty of time to reach their destination safely. 

 

"Whether you're driving cross-country or across the street, it is essential that both drivers and passengers wear a seat belt, no matter the type of vehicle," said Jim Bryan, ICJI's Traffic Safety Director. "This Thanksgiving, and every day of the year, remember to buckle up." 

 

Motorists are encouraged to call 911 if they encounter an impaired or unsafe driver on the road. 

 

About the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) is the state planning agency for criminal justice, juvenile justice, traffic safety and victim services. ICJI is designated as the state administering agency for distribution of federal funds and as the state Statistical Analysis Center for research. ICJI is responsible for coordinating and collaborating with local, state and federal entities to identify, assess, plan, resource and evaluate new and emerging issues facing the criminal justice and public safety spectrum. Visit www.cji.in.gov to learn more about the agency.