Beginning Friday, December 18 and continuing through Sunday, January 3, 2016, the Nebraska State Patrol will take part in the national “You Drink & Drive You Lose” (YDYDYL) campaign in an effort to remove impaired drivers from our roadways.

“Impaired driving spells holiday heartache, not holiday cheer,” said Colonel Bradley Rice, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We are asking all motorists to partner with us to help ensure everyone can be home for the holidays. Through voluntary compliance with all traffic safety laws you can help keep our roadways safe.”

As part of the “You Drink & Drive You Lose” campaign, troopers and communications specialists will work overtime hours during the special enforcement which encompasses both the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. A nearly $22,000 grant from the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety (NOHS) will help to pay for the extra enforcement.

Motorists are reminded to always wear their seat belt, never drive impaired or distracted, obey the posted speed limit and never travel faster than conditions allow.

Travelers can keep up to date with the latest weather and road conditions by utilizing 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The system can be accessed by dialing 511 or online at < www.511.nebraska.gov >. A Nebraska 511 mobile app is also available to download at no cost for smartphone users. Simply search your app provider for Nebraska 511.

To report a reckless or impaired driver, or if you are in need of non-emergency roadside assistance call the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline when safe to do so, at (star) *55 from any cell phone or 1-800-525-5555 from any landline. Emergencies should be reported to 911.

Colonel Rice said, “From the Nebraska State Patrol family to your family we wish you safe travel this holiday season.”