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

That’s the message from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency leaders as they urge drivers to exercise caution this weekend and throughout the week of Thanksgiving. And more troopers will be visible along roadways as an extra incentive.

Alabama state troopers will conduct checkpoints at targeting high-crash areas along busy corridors in partnership with local law enforcement agencies.

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

Stepped up enforcement runs through Dec. 1.

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

Archer stressed 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.