FORREST CITY (Times-Herald) - For the fourth consecutive year, Arkansas State Police Troop D is reporting a Christmas period free of fatal accidents.
According to information from Troop D, which is headquartered in
Forrest City, troopers responded to 14 accidents during the holiday
period which started Friday at 6 p.m. and ended at midnight Tuesday.
During the holiday period, troopers made 277 arrests. There were 97
speeding citations issued, 16 DWI arrests, 21 seat belt tickets issued
and three child restraint seat citations. There were also 41 other
hazardous arrests, 59 non-hazardous arrests and 40 criminal arrests.
Troopers also issued 148 speeding warnings and assisted 100 motorists
during the period.
This year's total numbers are higher than the 2011 Christmas holiday
period when 260 arrests were made, including 18 arrests for DWI.
State Police troops statewide are currently participating in the
"Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign which ends on Jan. 1.
According to ASP officials, troopers are working to be more visible
during the campaign and motorists can expect to see sobriety
checkpoints.
MADD suggests that party hosts include alcohol-free beverages and
protein-rich foods, along with reminding guests to plan ahead and
remember the following advice:
• If you plan to drive, don't drink.
• If you drink, choose a sober designated driver.
• Take a taxicab or ask someone to get you to your designation, if you have been drinking.
• Report impaired drivers to law enforcement
• Always wear your safety belt, your best defense against an impaired driver.
Click here for more information about the campaign, or call the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office at 501-618-8136 or MADD at 501-246-8810.
