Indiana has launched its annual Safe Family Travel enforcement campaign as Hoosiers begin the holiday travel season. Local and area law enforcement agencies in Knox County and surrounding counties are joining departments across the state in partnering with the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to reduce crashes and prevent fatalities.

The campaign runs from now through the end of December and targets impaired driving, aggressive driving, and seat belt violations. Agencies will increase patrols and conduct sobriety checkpoints, with officers working overtime to curb unsafe driving behavior.

“We see the consequences of unsafe driving every day,” said Douglas Huntsinger, executive director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. “By buckling up, slowing down, and never driving impaired, we can all help make Indiana’s roads safer this season.”

NHTSA reports that alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes during the holidays, and failing to wear a seat belt continues to be one of the most preventable causes of death on the road.

Officials urge drivers to plan ahead and follow basic safety steps: never drive impaired, always buckle up, follow posted speed limits, and avoid distractions. Motorists who encounter unsafe or impaired drivers are encouraged to call 911.

More safety information is available at nhtsa.gov/risky-driving.