Those on the roads this Memorial Day weekend can expect a heightened law enforcement presence.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol announced its 2026 Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period will begin Friday, May 22, at 6 p.m. and conclude Monday, May 25, at midnight. Each year, with an influx of travelers during the holiday weekend, additional troopers patrol highways and interstates with the goal of increasing public safety.
“As we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives for our country this Memorial Day, let’s also do our part to protect the lives around us,” Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell said. “If you’re traveling this weekend, buckle up, slow down, and never drive impaired. One safe decision can save a life.”
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The Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period coincides with the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which means the enforcement of seat belt laws will be an emphasis for state troopers.
Troopers will also be watching for speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving. Various safety checkpoints will be set up statewide in hopes of reducing crashes throughout the weekend, MHP Capt. Chris Turnipseed said.
During the 2025 Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period, the Mississippi Highway Patrol investigated 137 crashes, with six fatalities reported. Troopers also made 73 DUI arrests on state and federal highway systems and issued a total of 5,587 citations.