Drivers heading back to Washington State University in Pullman can expect extra Washington State Patrol troopers on the road as students and families return to
Drivers heading back to Washington State University in Pullman can expect extra Washington State Patrol troopers on the road as students and families return to campus after summer break.
The WSP will conduct emphasis patrols from Friday, Aug. 14, through Sunday, Aug. 16, in Grant and Kittitas counties.
The patrols come as traffic increases and after a history of serious collisions tied to back-to-school travel, the agency said.
During the emphasis, District 6 troopers will focus on speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving and other collision-causing violations. The patrols will include active enforcement of posted speed limits, with reminders for drivers to watch for changing speed limits while traveling across the state. Troopers will also have “zero tolerance for impaired driving,” the WSP said, and are urging motorists to eliminate distractions and stay focused behind the wheel.
Speeding remains one of the leading causes of serious and fatal crashes across Washington, according to the WSP. So far this year, District 6 has investigated 12 fatal collisions.
Drivers traveling to WSU should expect an increased WSP presence along State Route 26, Interstate 90 over Snoqualmie Pass, and through Ellensburg and Grant County.
The WSP said its primary goal is to ensure everyone arrives back at school safely. For comment, the agency directed media to Public Information Officer Trooper Jeremy Weber.
