Troopers will be looking out for impaired, aggressive and distracted drivers.
Pikesville, Md (KM) The Maryland State Police will have additional patrols out on the state’s highways beginning on Wednesday, and continuing through the Thanksgiving Day Weekend. “Highway safety is a top priority for the Maryland State Police year round. This is especially true during the holiday season when we expect to have more motorists on the road,”: says Ngan Ho, a spokeswoman for the Maryland State Police.
She says troopers from all 23 barracks will focus on impaired, aggressive and distracted driving. “The SPIDRE Team will also be deployed around the state this holiday season,”: says Ho. “For those who don’t know, SPIDRE is a team of specially trained troopers focused on locating and arresting impaired drivers.”
SPIDRE stands for State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Team.
According to the Maryland State Police, troopers at the Frederick Barrack will increase enforcement along major county roads including Interstate 70.
Ho urges anyone who plans to travel during the holiday period to not drink and drive. “Either avoid drinking if you’re planning to drive, or pick a sober driver in advance. That way you won’t have to worry once you’ve consumed alcohol,” she says.
Also, Ho says you can arrange to get home safely by using a ride sharing service, or public transportation.
“Remember, if you’re going to drink or be high, then don’t drive,” she says.
By Kevin McManus