As Mississippians plan to celebrate Independence Day throughout the weekend, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is encouraging people to drive responsibly.
Independence Day is one of the most traveled days on Mississippi highways and interstates each year, and just last year, Mississippi Highway Patrol issued 6,140 citations with 146 DUI arrests during the Fourth of July weekend. A total of 151 crashes were also investigated including 2 fatalities and 50 injuries on highway and interstate systems within the state.
“July Fourth is the time to display not only patriotism but also safety and responsibility,” MDOT Executive Director Brad White said. “Show your love for your country by keeping it safe and not letting anyone, including yourself, drive impaired.”
For a safe and pleasurable holiday weekend, MDOT is recommending the following:
- Plan ahead and designate a sober driver before drinking.
- If you are impaired, call a taxi, sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to call local law enforcement.
- If you see someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to arrive home safely.
“MDOT wants to make travel safe and convenient for the public throughout this holiday weekend,” White said. “Do your part by buckling up, staying alert in work zones and not driving distracted or impaired.”
