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Expect more traffic and more police this Thanksgiving

A Michigan State Police file photo.
Michigan State Police

If you're planning to hit the road this Thanksgiving, be ready for some extra traffic.

According to AAA Michigan, more than 1.6 million of the state's residents will travel 50 miles or more for a turkey dinner.

AAA says that's a 3.5% increase from last year. It's also the most travelers since 2007.

Along with more traffic, drivers can also expect to see a bigger police presence throughout the state.

Starting Wednesday, the Michigan State Police says it will conduct "high-visibility enforcement." Troopers will be on the lookout for impaired driving, seat belt use, careless driving, and speeding through the weekend.

The MSP says Thanksgiving is the the state's second-deadliest holiday when it comes to traffic crashes. There were ten fatalities last year, including five pedestrians.

"Buckling a seatbelt takes just seconds and can save your life. Texts, phone calls and other distractions can wait. Designating a sober driver is simple and benefits you and everyone else on the road," MSP Director Col. Kriste Etue said, in a statement.

The added patrols are part of the MSP's annual holiday traffic safety initiative.

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting.
Rebecca Kruth is the host of All Things Considered at Michigan Public. She also co-hosts Michigan Public's weekly language podcast That’s What They Say with English professor Anne Curzan.