Kentucky State Police Post 9: Labor Day Weekend Should Include Sober Driving

Operation C.A.R.E Targets Distracted and Impaired Driving During Holiday Travel

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (September 4, 2026) — As Labor Day weekend quickly approaches, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 9 will join law enforcement agencies in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). This national traffic safety initiative, happening September 4-7, 2026, is dedicated to keeping Kentucky’s roadways safe during a major travel holiday.

Throughout the Labor Day weekend, troopers will increase patrols on highways and interstates in order to thwart impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and failure to wear seatbelts.

KSP Post 9 Captain Brad Riley explains the importance of this safety effort.

“As the holiday brings an increased number of travelers onto Kentucky roadways this weekend, we want to remind everyone to stay safe,” Post Commander Brad Riley said. “Our troopers will be patrolling Kentucky roads to help ensure everyone arrives at their destinations safely. We ask everyone to have a plan in place to get home safely and never get behind the wheel if you have been drinking.”

KSP offers these safety reminders for drivers this Labor Day:

• Plan Ahead – If you plan to drink, arrange a safe ride before you start. Designate a driver, use a rideshare or stay overnight.
• Wear Your Seatbelt – It’s the simplest step you can take to protect yourself in a crash, and it’s required by law.
• Move Over for Emergency Vehicles – Give first responders room to work safely. If you can’t change lanes, slow down significantly.
• Put the Phone Away – Distracted driving is dangerous. Keep your focus on the road.

In concordance with Operation C.A.R.E, if you see a suspected impaired driver, do not hesitate to contact your local KSP Post or law enforcement agency. Need help determining your nearest Post location? Find it here.

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