NMSP News:

During the Labor Day holiday, the New Mexico State Police participated in the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) operation across roadways within the state.

The goal of the traffic initiative is that a strong law enforcement presence will have a direct effect on the driving behaviors of motorists during the holiday weekend, reduce the number of crashes, and increase motorist safety.

NMSP provided an increased patrol presence during this initiative on roadways throughout all State Police districts. Because of the increased volume of traffic during the holiday, NMSP conducted high intensity traffic operations statewide on the busiest travel days of the Labor Day weekend, specifically Saturday Aug. 31, through Monday Sept. 2.

Operations over the holiday resulted in State Police officers issuing about 1,700 traffic citations (79 citations were for lack of seat belt usage) and arresting 14 drunk drivers statewide. Officers handled 37 crashes, with none being fatal, and made 11 arrests due to drug related crimes.

The Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Bureau issued approximately 120 commercial vehicle citations and conducted more than 331 commercial vehicle inspections.

The safety of motorists is a top priority of the New Mexico State Police and officers will continue holiday travel operations throughout the upcoming winter season. NMSP encourages the public to drive safely and obey all laws while traveling the motorways of New Mexico.