With extra traffic anticipated on the state’s roadways over the Memorial Day weekend, motorists are encouraged to exercise caution and obey all traffic laws–both to stay safe and to avoid citations.

Clanton Police Department will participate in a state-wide effort to reduce wrecks by placing extra officers on the roads to look for aggressive drivers, driving under the influence, texting while driving and seat belt violations, according to a press release.

CPD received a grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs to help with the effort.

The department worked 496 crashes in 2010, 341 in 2011 and 310 in 2012, according to the release.

“We hope to continue our downward trend when it comes to traffic crashes,” Clanton Police Chief Brian Stilwell said in the release. “This program is about traffic safety, and we hope everyone has a safe Memorial Day Weekend.”

The effort began at midnight Thursday and lasts until midnight Tuesday.

Also during the holiday weekend, the Alabama Department of Transportation has announced there would be no temporary lane closures on Alabama interstates after noon on Friday through midnight Tuesday.

Alabama State Troopers will participate in the nationwide Click It or Ticket campaign to increase awareness of the importance of wearing safety belts, according to a release. Patrols will be added with support from ADECA and ALDOT.

For more information, visit www.dot.state.al.us.