Sheriffs Ask You to "Show Some Restraint"
This Fourth of July Holiday Weekend

Lansing, MI - As families and friends come together from all over Michigan to celebrate this Fourth of July, Sheriffs' Offices across the state will increase patrols targeting impaired driving and non-seat belt usage. The Michigan Sheriffs' Association announced today that from June 30th to July 4th, traffic safety enforcement will be increased to combat impaired driving and non-seat belt usage for the holiday weekend. The campaign, known as "Show Some Restraint" will combine both education and enforcement efforts.

Specifically, Sheriffs' Offices in Clinton, Cheboygan, Mackinac, Muskegon, and St. Clair have been awarded grants from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to conduct overtime patrols for the purpose of stopping impaired driving and enforcing the new standard enforcement seat belt law to ensure Michigan's roadways are safe for travelers and motorists are using proper restraint.

While the number of deaths has decreased in recent years, alcohol and drug impairment remains a significant factor in 38 percent of all fatal motor vehicle crashes.

"The Michigan Sheriffs' Association wants to get the word out that impaired driving is a violent and too often, deadly crime that we cannot afford to overlook," said Terrence L. Jungel, Executive Director of the Michigan Sheriffs' Association. "During this high traffic time, it is especially important for travelers to wear their seat belt restraints and refrain from using any substances that impair driving. Drivers who operate vehicles while they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol and drivers who do not wear their seat belts cost Michigan residents millions of dollars each year in lost time, lost property, and most important lost lives. The greatest tragedy is that deaths due to impaired driving-related crashes are preventable - these are not accidents."

The Michigan Sheriffs' Association hopes that this increase in traffic safety awareness and enforcement will result in lives being saved and travelers enjoying a safe and happy holiday weekend.

For more information on this campaign or other safety tips contact your local Sheriff's Office or call the Michigan Sheriffs' Association at 517-485-3135.