Governor Kathy Hochul, in coordination with the New York State Police and local law enforcement agencies, has increased patrols to improve roadway safety ahead of Thanksgiving. The patrols, which began yesterday and will continue through November 30, focus on addressing impaired and reckless driving. Funded by the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC), the effort also includes enforcement of the Move Over Law, which is especially relevant during periods of heavy travel.
“Thanksgiving is the beginning of the busy holiday season with thousands of people traveling to gather and celebrate,” Governor Hochul said in the official announcement. During the 2024 Thanksgiving enforcement period, law enforcement arrested 1,705 drivers for impaired driving and issued thousands of tickets for speeding and distracted driving, demonstrating the continued role of focused traffic safety enforcement.
A driving under the influence (DUI) arrest can result in substantial costs, including legal fees, higher insurance rates, and lost income, which can exceed $10,000. State Police Superintendent Steven G. James highlighted the importance of road safety during times of heavier travel.
Enforcement measures will include patrol cars, fixed sobriety checkpoints, and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles, which monitor for distracted driving and handheld device use while remaining able to address unsafe driving as needed. Road construction closures will be lifted for the holiday under the Drivers First Initiative to help reduce congestion, though some work may continue for emergency repairs or behind permanent concrete barriers, New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said.
In an official announcement, travelers were advised they can plan stops and check real-time traffic using the free app from the New York State Thruway Authority or the 511NY service before their trip. The GTSC and New York State STOP-DWI Foundation also offer the “Have a Plan” app, which helps people arrange safe transportation if they plan to drink. Law enforcement officials noted, “Law enforcement will be on the lookout for impaired and aggressive drivers,” and reminded drivers to stay attentive on the roads.
