Drive Carefully Through Labor Day: State Cops Are Watching

If you're one of the many New Yorkers traveling in the last week of August and Labor Day weekend, better keep "Operation Summer Brake" in mind. 

State Police and the New York State Thruway Authority begin this joint effort Aug. 26 and continue through Labor Day, Sept. 2. This initiative targets the prevention of crash-causing behavior which includes driving while intoxicated, aggressive driving, and speeding, police officials said. 

"The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to be alert on the road, drive responsibly, obey posted speed limits, and avoid all distractions to ensure a safe trip to their destination.  We are committed to working with New Yorkers and the State Police to maintain the Thruway’s outstanding safety record," said Thruway Authority Executive Director Thomas J. Madison.  

The initiative will be carried out by the state police from Troop T.

"Throughout the initiative, the dedicated members of Troop T will not only be watching for those who are speeding, driving aggressively, or intoxicated, but will also be conducting seatbelt checks and looking for drivers using cell phones and electronic devices while driving," said State Police Captain Michael T. Eaton. "Labor Day, the last holiday of the summer season, usually leads to higher traffic volume on the Thruway.  Troop T and the Thruway Authority make it their business to help motorists get to their destination safely."