State Police increase patrols on Virginia interstates - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

Drivers will be under strict radar this weekend. Many people are hitting the road as college students head back to school.

More state troopers will also be out patrolling the interstates looking for drivers breaking the law. State Police say they will be out looking for speeders and dangerous drivers with one goal in mind - to make sure people get to their destination safely.

Lolita Matthews knows she'll have to brave interstate traffic all weekend. She travels I-95 and I-64 for work.

"Yeah, I just say slow down on the roads because there's going to be a lot of traffic so just be cautious of your speed and other people around you," said  Matthews.

That's exactly what Virginia State Police want drivers to do. They also encourage people to use common sense on the road- drive the speed limit, wear seat belts and limit distractions like texting and driving.

State Police typically see more traffic the weekend before college starts as students all over the east coast head back to school.

"We want to insure safety on the interstates because we know there is a significant increase of traffic this weekend," said State Police Spokesman, Sgt. Thomas Molnar. "That's why we're putting an increase of troopers out there through Operation Air, Land and Speed."

Sgt. Molnar says speeders will be on the radar especially along I-95, I-64, and I-81 this busy travel weekend.

"It's also a good idea to remember the "Move Over" law. If you see a trooper stopped on the side of the road, go ahead and move over to the next lane for the safety of drivers and police on the interstate."

To report a reckless driver or an accident on the highway, dial: #77 to contact State Police directly.

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