"This weekend, troopers will be watching for unsafe driving behaviors with a special emphasis on motorists driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs," stated Col. Peter C. Munoz, director of the MSP.  "The Fourth of July holiday is a great time to celebrate with family and friends, but please remember to do so responsibly."

The official Fourth of July weekend begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 3, and runs through midnight on Sunday, July 5.  Last year, 14 fatal traffic crashes resulted in 14 deaths over the holiday weekend.  Of those who died, three were not wearing safety belts, and alcohol was a known factor in three of the crashes.

Operation C.A.R.E. began in 1977 as a collaborative effort between the MSP and Indiana State Police, and is one of the nation's longest-running traffic safety initiatives.  Today, it includes state and highway patrol agencies from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Quebec Police Force and the Virgin Islands.  

In addition, the MSP will join nearly 300 law enforcement agencies across Michigan taking part in the Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. crackdown that funds overtime patrols to arrest drunk drivers.