The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to slow down and work with law enforcement to ensure everyone has a safe holiday season this year.

Last year during the Christmas and New Year holiday week, 20 people were killed and 668 people were injured in traffic collisions. The leading cause of those collisions was speed. Troopers will be conducting checkpoints and strictly enforcing the state's driving while impaired laws. The patrol will be increasing the number of troopers on the interstates and heavily traveled corridors, cracking down on motorists who are driving recklessly or traveling at excessive speeds.

“ Holiday travel can be very dangerous on our highways if people don't obey the laws and use common sense when they travel,” said Colonel Randy Glover, Patrol Commander. “Drinking and driving do not mix; make the right choice – don't drink and drive.”

During the holidays, SHP will also be participating in the state's “Booze It and Lose It” anti-drunk driving campaign and the national Combined Accident Reduction Effort, (C.A.R.E). Sobriety checkpoints are being held throughout the state during the entire week.

The 2009 Christmas holiday period begins Wednesday, Dec. 23, and ends midnight on Friday, Jan. 1. Drivers and passengers are also reminded to wear seat belts, slow down, and allow plenty of time to get to their destinations.

Motorists with cellular phones can report safety hazards to the Highway Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) toll free.