Slow down, buckle up and have your driver’s license handy.

That’s the message from Alabama Law Enforcement Agency leaders as they urge drivers to use caution this weekend and throughout Thanksgiving week. And more soldiers will be seen along roads as an added incentive.

Alabama state troopers will conduct checkpoints to target high-crash areas along busy corridors in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

Checkpoint activities will include driving license checks. Authorities say the campaign is an effort to reduce crashes, injuries and deaths this season.

The intensified enforcement continues until December 1.

“The Thanksgiving holiday marks the beginning of a cherished time of year,” said Col. Jonathan Archer, director of ALEA’s Public Safety Division, in a statement. “Tragically, many Alabama families are experiencing losses due to preventable motor vehicle accidents caused by impaired driving, speeding and failure to wear seat belts.”

Archer emphasized that proper seat belt use is the best defense against impaired, aggressive and distracted drivers.

“No matter how long or short your drive, it’s critical that drivers and passengers buckle up. Every trip. Every time,” he said.