Mount Pleasant, S.C. — In a bid to curb unsafe driving ahead of the Labor Day weekend, local law enforcement issued dozens of traffic citations Thursday during a multi-agency enforcement operation on the Ravenel Bridge. The operation was carried out by Mount Pleasant and Charleston police departments, with support from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office.
Details of the Operation
During the three-and-a-half-hour operation, a total of 50 citations were issued. The breakdown of violations included:
21 speeding citations
13 seat belt violations
16 equipment violations
The operation comes as part of an effort to increase road safety and combat dangerous driving habits ahead of the busy holiday weekend.
Statewide Push to Curb Traffic Fatalities
As Labor Day approaches, local and state agencies are ramping up efforts to address unsafe driving. The holiday weekend marks the end of the “100 Deadly Days of Summer”—a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities historically spike.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), there were six fatal crashes during last year’s Labor Day weekend, with three involving impaired driving.
Heightened Law Enforcement Presence Over Labor Day Weekend
Colonel Christopher Williamson, the commander of the South Carolina Highway Patrol, urged drivers to make responsible decisions:
“If you plan to enjoy alcohol, don’t get behind the wheel. The decision to drive impaired could land you in jail or worse. Make the right choice and call a sober friend, a taxi, or a rideshare. It’s as simple as that.”
Hands-Free Law Takes Effect September 1
Another important reminder for South Carolina drivers is the new hands-free law, which goes into effect on September 1. SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV advised drivers to stay focused on the road, especially as they head home after the long weekend:
“As you are driving back home after the long holiday weekend, remember to put the phone down and keep your focus on the road.”
The law mandates that drivers cannot hold or use their phones while driving, aiming to reduce distractions and improve safety on the roads.
What’s Next for Drivers?
With heightened law enforcement efforts throughout the holiday weekend, drivers are urged to stay safe and obey traffic laws. Authorities are taking a proactive approach to make the roads safer for everyone, emphasizing the need to make responsible choices to prevent accidents and fatalities.
