Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Department of Safety announced today the Tennessee Highway Patrol will be conducting increased patrols across the state this weekend in anticipation of a busy Easter holiday weekend on state roadways. The 2006 Easter holiday weekend runs from April 14 through the 17.

"Many people will travel to be with family and friends this holiday weekend," said Interim Department of Safety Commissioner Gerald Nicely. "We want to ensure everyone arrives unhurt, so we're reminding travelers to drive safely, obey the posted speed limits and always wear their safety belts."

During the 2005 Easter holiday weekend 17 people died on Tennessee roadways. That's a rate of one death every four hours and thirty-five minutes. Sixteen of the fatalities occurred in automobile crashes. Seven of those sixteen, or 44%, were not wearing a safety belt, four were in alcohol related crashes and three were killed in speed related accidents.

"Last Easter holiday we lost too many people in crashes on Tennessee roadways," stated THP Colonel Mike Walker. "This year, we hope to see that number decline so more people will be able to spend their holiday enjoying an Easter egg hunt or big family cookout. So don't speed, don't be an aggressive driver and please make sure you and your passengers wear safety belts."

The Tennessee Highway Patrol will conduct increased patrols beginning April 14 targeting aggressive or negligent drivers across the state. The increased enforcement is made possible thanks to grants provided by the Tennessee Governor's Highway Safety Office.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.