“It’s where we do road checks,” said Trooper 1st Class J.T. McMillan. “We’re looking for safety-restraint violations, child-restraint violations, looking for uninsured motorists (and) impaired drivers.”
In addition to setting up checkpoints, the GSP will also have its regular patrols focus on impaired drivers, especially in areas where there have been accidents. The random road checks will take place both at night and during the day with the checkpoints’ location being determined by the traffic volume and the time of day.
“Back roads are real good for it,” McMillan said. “Impaired drivers think they can get around the main roads by using the back roads.”
He said the GSP might set up checkpoints on the main roads as well.
McMillan said the GSP will begin citing pickup truck drivers who are not wearing seat belts, since there has been adequate time for people to become informed of the new law.
“We are writing tickets now,” he said.
The GSP will also be on the lookout for anyone who is sending text messages while driving.
“No texting, period, by anyone in a vehicle,” McMillan said.
He said the law permits those over 18 to talk on their cell phones while driving but no one, regardless of age, is allowed to send text messages.
McMillan hopes the program will reduce the number of car crashes and serious injuries.
Operation Zero Tolerance will begin Friday and run through Labor Day.
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