For many, the Fourth of July is synonymous with fireworks, cookouts, and pool parties. Nationwide, traffic fatalities are also becoming synonymous with the Fourth of July. To help prevent these tragedies previously seen around the holiday, the Mar-Mac Police Department and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau is partnering with Iowa law enforcement for a high-visibility enforcement campaign July 3-7.
Iowa had nine traffic fatalities over the Fourth of July holiday weekend last year, making it the deadliest Fourth of July weekend in over a decade. No matter how you choose to celebrate, be sure you’re staying safe, and never drive impaired.
“We want people to enjoy the holiday and to celebrate responsibly,” says GTSB Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes. “Impaired driving endangers everyone, and our law enforcement partners know how to spot an impaired driver and will not hesitate to pull them over. If you’re going to drink, plan for a sober ride ahead of time.”
Need help finding a ride? Designate a sober driver, schedule a taxi, or rideshare, or use your community’s sober ride program.
Through its Decide to Ride program, Doll Distributing is offering a $10 Uber voucher to encourage Iowans to plan and make safe choices. GTSB is supporting the effort by helping raise awareness. Below is a link to the Fourth of July voucher to share with your community. It’s valid statewide, beginning 7/3 at 5 pm and ending 7/7 at 2 am.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce death and injury on Iowa roads using federally funded grants.
Authorized for Publication
Robert Millin, Chief of Police
