The Florida Highway Patrol will conduct the first of three "intensive patrols" this weekend targeting driving under the influence and wrong-way driving in the Tampa Bay area.

Eleven people have died this year in wrong-way crashes along Tampa-area highways, and there has been an "alarming increase" in wrong-way driving arrests for impairment. The patrols are aimed at getting dangerous drivers off the road, the FHP said.

Extra troopers from around the state will join with local troopers and Hillsborough County sheriff's office in the extra patrols Thursday through Sunday.

The FHP will kick off the campaign Thursday with a news conference feature FHP Director Col. David Brierton, State Sen. Jeff Brandes, FDOT District 7 Secretary Paul Steinman and Maj. Alan Hill of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

Troopers issued the following advice for drivers:

Tips to help you get to your destination safely:

  • Plan ahead. If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving. Designate a sober driver or find another safe way home. Even one drink increases the risk of a crash while driving a motor vehicle.
  • If you are impaired, find another way home. Use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member or use public transportation.
  • Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let them get behind the wheel. If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life, and inaction could cost a life.

What to do when encountering a wrong way driver:

  • There is no rule of thumb, for wrong way driving patterns.
  • Fate of an innocent driver can be taken in seconds as a high speed wrong way driver approaches. 
  • A driver’s reaction is situational and will depend on the reaction of the other driver, the speed, and how much time there is to react. 
  • Try to stay to the right at night and slow down
  • Get to the shoulder as fast as you can and stop
  • Get the drivers attention by honking your horn and flashing your lights after you have pulled right. 
  • Call 911 immediately and don’t take the time to video. 
  • Ultimately, if you do come across a wrong-way driver, it is up to you to make a judgment call. 
  • Never turn around and follow the driver