PARKERSBURG - Area law enforcement agencies will be on the lookout for traffic violations over the Thanksgiving holiday.
"Thanksgiving can be a dangerous time for motorists, especially unbelted ones," said Toni Tiano, program director for the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Highway Safety Program.
"As a result of a high volume of traffic and crashes, area law enforcement agencies will be having additional officers patrolling the streets within their jurisdiction."
This Thanksgiving, there will be a 2.1 percent increase of Americans traveling by car compared to last year, according to the AAA auto club.
During the 2008 Thanksgiving holiday travel season, 389 passengers were killed in car accidents nationwide, and 55 percent of those victims were unrestrained , Tiano said.
Sixteen law enforcement agencies in the Mid-Ohio Valley area have received state grants to fund the extra patrols, she said.
Wood County Sheriff Jeff Sandy said drivers should stay focused during the busy holiday weekend.
"I have personally seen people swerving over the road while they utilize their cell phones," he said. "I know it's the holiday season. There is last minute shopping to do and people are worried about getting the turkey done on time, but the important thing is to stay focused while driving. It only takes a split second to get into a car accident."
Wood County Sheriff's Office will have the normal number of patrols out this holiday season, Sandy said.
Additional patrols with the West Virginia State Police will be on the roads through Sunday. Officials cautioned drivers to abide by the speed limits, especially in construction zones.
Ohio law enforcement agencies also will be stepping up patrols during the holiday.
"We are committing as much manpower as we possibly can this weekend," said Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks.
"Basically, drivers should use common sense. Wear seat belts, drive within the speed limits and don't drink and drive," he said. "If you'll be traveling long distances, tell someone when you are leaving and when you expect to arrive at your destination. Take a cell phone with you."
Mincks said it is important to be courteous when traveling with so many other drivers on the road.
