Increase in police officers hit the streets

MICHIGAN — Starting today, drivers should expect to see more police officers through the 7th of September.

Officers will be out on grant assignments that will be strictly enforcing sober driving and seat belt usage.

“With the holiday period, we have an increase in traffic of course,” said Sgt. Kevin Dowling with the Michigan State Police, “with that comes the higher likelihood that accidents could occur. We’re going to be out there enforcing seat belt usage, that’s your best offense against getting injured in a traffic crash and of course taking a zero tolerance on alcohol.”

In order to increase safety, it’s best to find a designated driver prior to going out. Even if it’s just a few drinks.

“The best way to look at getting behind the wheel after drinking is don’t do it. If you’ve been drinking at all don’t drive. You’re subjecting yourself to a lot of problems and subjecting yourself to being involved in a traffic crash or injuring yourself or others.”

The initiative is put on by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety. In Michigan, it’s illegal to drive a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher.