Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to conduct high-visibility traffic safety enforcement
From staff reports
The National Park Service will conduct a series of high-visibility traffic enforcement operations throughout the summer at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to promote safe driving behaviors and reduce serious traffic crashes. These operations will be conducted in coordination with local and state law enforcement partners.
Visitors can expect an increased law enforcement presence on park roads and at key traffic corridors during designated enforcement periods. Rangers and partner agencies will focus on traffic safety violations, including seatbelt use, speeding, and impaired driving. The goal of these highly visible patrols is to encourage voluntary compliance with traffic laws and improve safety for all who visit the park.
Motor vehicle crashes caused by speeding, impaired as well as distracted driving, remain among the leading safety concerns in national parks. With increased visitation during the summer season, park roads experience higher traffic volumes involving passenger vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
The NPS encourages all visitors to help make park roads safer by following these simple safety tips:
- Wear your seatbelt at all times.
- Obey posted speed limits.
- Never drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Stay alert for pedestrians, bicyclists, and wildlife.
- Allow extra travel time during periods of heavy visitation.
- Use caution and be patient in construction or maintenance zones.
These high-visibility enforcement operations are supported through funding provided by the NHTSA | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in partnership with the National Park Service Traffic Safety Coalition.
The NPS appreciates the continued cooperation of visitors and the support of local and state law enforcement partners in helping keep Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore a safe destination for everyone.
