How a Cup of Coffee, and Some Safety Tips, Could Save Your Life

Operation C.A.R.E. will advocate safe driving at highway rest areas

DEARBORN, Mich., June 24 -- Just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend - one of the busiest travel periods of the year - AAA Michigan will once again partner with the Michigan State Police (MSP) in supporting Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort). Banners will be posted at rest areas statewide, with most sites offering complimentary coffee and refreshments.

Operation C.A.R.E., begun in July 1977 by Sgt. Gary Ernst of the MSP and F/Sgt. Gene Neff of the Indiana State Police, is now one of the longest-running traffic safety initiatives in U.S. history.

In addition to free coffee, Operation C.A.R.E. volunteers will provide information about some of the major causes of deadly crashes and how to avoid them: 1) improper seat belt use, 2) speeding, 3) distractions, 4) drinking and 5) driver preparedness (are both car and driver ready to drive?).

"AAA Michigan is pleased and proud to be a partner with the Michigan State Police in support of Operation C.A.R.E.," said Jack Peet, manager of Community Safety Services for AAA Michigan. "During the busy summer driving season, it is vital that motorists prepare themselves and their vehicle for a safe journey."

As part of Operation C.A.R.E., motorists may obtain free ICE (In Case of Emergency) cards and/or program their cell phones with contact information in case of an emergency.

"No one ever plans to be in a traffic crash, but they are an unfortunate occurrence every day," said Col. Peter C. Munoz, director of the Michigan State Police. "Precious time can be lost if officers cannot quickly identify who to call when there is a critical need to get immediate medical treatment for victims."

The MSP and AAA encourage motorists to place an ICE card in their glove boxes or program their cell phones with "ICE" designations next to those individuals in their contact list who should be called in the event of an emergency.

ICE cards are available by calling AAA Michigan at 1-800-646-4222.

Motorists can find driving and car maintenance tips at: AAA.com.