Trooper: “The highway is our office.”

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — “The highway is our office,” says Lance Corporal David Jones of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. This weekend more vehicles are expected on area roadways, especially interstates. Local and state law enforcement officials will be out in full force. “We see an increase of motorists speeding trying to get to family functions or get to gatherings,” says Jones Speed and alcohol are, according to the highway patrol, two of the biggest contributors to accidents. Even the accidents, may contribute to accidents. “If you see, lights or sirens from any emergency vehicle, especially if they are on the shoulder of the road, if you have the opportunity to move over, please do so… state law mandates that you do so,” says Jones Authorities say if you cannot move over, slow down. Also, if you see sirens or lights behind you, move to the right and beware before getting back on the roadway. “There’s probably going to be a second one coming down that same roadway, just be aware of that before you pull back into the lane of traffic,” says Senior Deputy Jamie Owens, Richland County Sheriff’s Department.