Highway Patrol encourages safe driving during Thanksgiving Holiday

PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Highway Patrol reminds people who are traveling this Thanksgiving holiday to do so in a safe manner.

Col. Rick Miller delivers Thanksgiving Day Safety Message

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The Highway Patrol will conduct a statewide “Operation Safe” Wednesday in an effort to encourage those already traveling to be careful. Col. Rick Miller, superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, says troopers also will be out on the road throughout the weekend.

“We remind people to slow down, pay attention, drive sober and wear a seat belt,” said Col. Miller.

This year’s Thanksgiving motor vehicle fatal crash reporting period covers 102 hours beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and ending at midnight Sunday, Nov. 29. Last year, South Dakota recorded 323 motor vehicle traffic crash that resulted in one fatality and 62 injuries.

While the weather should be good for travel, drivers are recommend to check road conditions by calling 5-1-1 or clicking onto http://www.safetravelusa.com/sd/.

The Highway Patrol is part of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.