Staff Reports
The Fourth of July weekend will feature a more robust law enforcement presence on Florida’s highways and byways.
In a media release Wednesday, the Florida Highway Patrol promised “increased visibility” on roadways during the holiday weekend.
The FHP will target “aggressive drivers,” as well as those who exhibit signs of substance impairment.
The law enforcement agency urges designation of a “sober” driver.
“The Florida Highway Patrol will continue our commitment to ensuring Florida’s roadways are safe by increasing our patrol efforts this holiday weekend,” said Col. Gene S. Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol.
Spaulding urges travellers to “be patient on our busy highways.”
Recent years suggest that such cautionary tales are warranted. Per the FHP, the July 4th weekend in 2018 saw almost 10 percent of the state’s nearly 3,000 DUIs.
Regarding crashes, when drugs and alcohol were involved, the FHP asserts “nearly all” collisions were fatal.
Beyond sobriety, the FHP advises drivers to buckle up for safety, and to avoid being distracted from their responsibilities as motor vehicle operators.
When visibility is low, drivers are urged to be especially vigilant.
The Florida Highway Patrol can’t be everywhere. Yet the agency clearly hopes its pre-holiday release keeps the roads safe … and, perhaps, saves some lives.
