RALEIGH, N.C. — The

state Highway Patrol

will again put special emphasis on enforcing traffic laws on the state's highways during the Easter holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will increase patrols on the interstates and other heavily traveled corridors targeting aggressive drivers.

The aggressive driver has been identified as those drivers who flagrantly violate the motor vehicle laws, including but not limited to: excessive speeding, following too closely, erratic lane changes, safe movement violations and other forms of reckless endangerment.

"Whether you're headed to the beach, visiting friends, or going to church, please drive with care," said Colonel Richard W. Holden, Highway Patrol commander. "Our troopers and Motor Carrier Enforcement Officers will be looking for aggressive drivers, drunk drivers, and other violators throughout the state while patrolling this Easter weekend."

Last year in North Carolina, 10 people died in 1,995 collisions during the Easter holiday period. The 2004 Easter weekend begins at 6 p.m. Thursday and ends at midnight Sunday.

The Patrol will also be participating in the nationwide Combined Accident Reduction Effort. "CARE" is a coordinated effort in which highway patrol and state police agencies increase their visibility along selected routes during holiday periods to prevent crashes.

Citizens may report crashes, drunk drivers, stranded motorists or other highway situations to the Highway Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) on their cellular telephones. The toll-free call connects the caller with the nearest Highway Patrol communications center.