If you plan to travel on Interstate 66 on Friday or Saturday, be aware that Virginia State Police are stepping up enforcement efforts as part of Operation DISS-rupt.
The operation, conducted by the Culpeper and Fairfax divisions of VSP, will take place on all 76 miles of the interstate.
The effort primarily focuses on distracted driving, impaired driving, speed compliance and seat belt safety.
“The middle of August is a perfect time to focus on promoting highway safety with schools starting back up, and people getting in their last-minute vacations,” said Captain Donald W. Jones, Jr., commander of the Virginia State Police Culpeper division. “Additional state troopers will be on patrol along the entire I-66 corridor to enhance highway safety for all motorists. We ask Virginians to ‘DISS-rupt’ risky driving behaviors by focusing on the roads and by designating a sober driver if they have been drinking.”
The operation’s goal is to reduce fatal crashes on Virginia interstates for the year by 10 percent.
Driving tips from VSP
- Ditch distractions: Virginia has a “hands-free” law that prohibits a driver from holding a handheld personal communications device while driving. GPS and making phone calls are still legal, as long as the device is mounted and/or not in your hands.
- Never drive impaired: Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is illegal in Virginia. Even buzzed driving is drunk driving. Always designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride-hailing service.
- Comply with speed limits: Posted speed limits on Virginia interstates never exceed 70 mph, so neither should your speed.
- Seat belt safety: Virginia law requires all front seat occupants of motor vehicles be restrained, and any passenger from birth to 18 years old be properly restrained in an appropriate child safety seat or seat belt, no matter their seating position.
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Crystal Graham
