Santa Fe, NM – A statewide traffic safety initiative over the Labor Day weekend led to more than 3,000 citations and dozens of impaired driving arrests, according to the New Mexico State Police.
According to the agency, officers participated in the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) operation from Thursday, August 28, through Tuesday, September 2, targeting some of the busiest travel days of the year. The campaign aimed to reduce crashes and promote safe driving with an increased police presence across state highways.
During the operation, officers issued 3,000 traffic citations, including 271 for failure to wear seat belts. Authorities also arrested 35 drivers on suspicion of impairment. Investigators responded to 33 crashes statewide, two of which were reported as fatal.
The Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Bureau conducted 1,085 inspections and issued 154 citations involving commercial vehicles.
New Mexico State Police emphasized that holiday weekends bring higher traffic volumes and greater risks for motorists. The department said it will continue similar operations throughout the year to prioritize road safety. Officials urged drivers to obey traffic laws, wear seat belts, and avoid impaired driving to reduce preventable crashes.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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