Statewide, NM– With Christmas right around the corner, the New Mexico State Police is encouraging drivers to make safety a top priority this holiday, as increased travel can present additional challenges for drivers.
As part of the nationwide Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) initiative, New Mexico State Police will be increasing patrols beginning Friday, December 23rd, through Monday, December 26th. New Mexico State Police will be looking for drivers who violate the law, including those who are speeding, driving impaired, failing to wear a seat belt, texting, and driving, and driving without insurance, among other traffic violations.
“As we prepare for the Christmas holiday, we want to remind every New Mexican of their duty to help keep our roadways safe,” said Tim Johnson, Chief of the New Mexico State Police. “Make safety a top priority, obey all traffic laws, don’t drive impaired, put down your phones while you’re behind the wheel, and look out for each other.”
- Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
- Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas, or construction zones.
- Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. New Mexico law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. Also, if you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it, so you can keep your eyes on the road.
- Don’t drive fatigued — allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Monitor weather and road conditions tune into local weather broadcasts to check the latest weather conditions. For road conditions and closures in New Mexico, visit www.nmroads.com.
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