RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Despite a decrease in traffic-related deaths in Virginia roadways in 2025, officials will conduct a statewide operation to target distracted and impaired drivers on Interstate 64. From Thursday, Feb. 5 to Friday, Feb. 6, state police will conduct "Operation DISSrupt" on all 299 miles of I-64, focusing on distracted driving, impaired driving, speed compliance and seat belt safety, after 46 people died in a traffic crash on Virginia roadways as of Tuesday, Feb. 3. Thirteen pedestrians were hit and killed between Jan. 1, 2026, and Feb. 3, 2026. “According to preliminary data, Virginia saw a decrease in traffic fatalities in 2025,” said Captain David Edwards, Commander of the Virginia State Police Salem Field Division. “We want that trend to continue, and by being visible, troopers remind people of the safety measures they need to take to remain safe while driving.” State police said in a Feb. 4 press release that "Operation DISSrupt" will focus on four causes of deadly and serious injury crashes on Virginia's interstates. "The operation’s goal is to achieve zero fatal crashes during designated enforcement periods and to reduce the total number of crashes on our interstates for the calendar year by 10%," police wrote in a release. Police will focus on the following driving behaviors: Ditch Distractions: Virginia is “Hands-Free” which prohibits drivers from holding personal communications devices while driving. The use of GPS and phone calls are legal, as long as the device is not in your hands. Never Drive Impaired: Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is illegal in Virginia. Even buzzed driving is drunk driving. Always designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or a ride-sharing service. Comply with Speed Limits: Posted speed limits on Virginia interstates never exceed 70 mph. So, neither should your speed. Speed-related crashes claimed 410 lives in 2024 in Virginia. Simply, drive to save lives. Seat Belt Safety: Virginia law requires all occupants of motor vehicles be restrained. The operation comes just weeks after a 6-year-old boy was killed in a crash on I-64 East in Henrico County on Jan. 18.  "Operation DISS-rupt" will focus on Interstate 95, Interstate 81 and Interstate 66 later this year. ...read more read less