MSP to Increase Enforcement Statewide Over July 4th Holiday
Expect to see increased police enforcement over the July 4th weekend to prevent dangerous driving behaviors and to save lives as area roads see more people traveling for the holiday. The SPIDRE team will focus on enforcement efforts of impaired, distracted and aggressive driving, speeding and other violations that contribute to highway tragedy. In the Western Shore Counties – troopers from the Easton Barrack will focus on Routes 50 and 404. Troopers from the Princess Anne Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on area “hotspots” for crashes, as well as work zone and DUI enforcement along Routes 13 and 413. And troopers from the Salisbury Barrack will focus enforcement efforts on Routes 50 and 13.
Over the past five years in Maryland, nearly 800 people have lost their lives and nearly 15,300Â have
been injured in crashes involving an impaired driver. Speeding, impaired driving and not wearing a
seat belt are among the most common contributing factors in motor vehicle fatalities. Many of these
deaths were preventable.
If you are attending a Fourth of July gathering:
- Designate a sober driver in advance and give that person your car keys.
- If you’re planning on driving, stay sober.
- Consider using public transportation. Call a taxi or use a ride-share service if you don’t have a sober
driver. - Don’t let a friend drive if you think they are impaired.
- If you see someone who you believe is driving impaired, then call the police.
- Always buckle up.
- Don’t drive distracted, text, or use a cell phone that is not hands-free.
If you are hosting a Fourth of July gathering:
- Remember, you can be held liable if someone you served alcohol to ends up in an impaired-driving
crash. - Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages
- Ensure sober drivers or alternative modes of transportation are set up in advance for guests who are
not planning to stay sober. - Have contact information for local taxi companies readily available.
- Take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired.
