Arizona Department of Public Safety will conduct intensive enforcement to keep highways safe during Fourth of July holiday

In 2007, the Fourth of July holiday fell on a Wednesday.  Therefore, the standard three-day holiday weekend was not in place.  One person died on Arizona’s highway system during the one-day holiday period last year.

In 2006, during the three-day Fourth of July holiday, there were five fatal collisions in which five people were killed on Arizona’s highway system.

During this year’s Fourth of July holiday weekend, DPS will increase enforcement efforts during peak collision times.  This coincides with DPS’ participation in Operation Combined Accident Reduction Effort (CARE) – a national initiative that relies on state law enforcement agencies to reduce highway collisions, especially during the holiday period.  

For more information on Operation CARE visit:  www.careofnorthamerica.org

√ Impaired Driving – If you are planning on drinking this holiday make sure you have a designated driver or plan to call a cab.  Once you start drinking your ability to make sound decisions decreases with each drink.  Impaired driving extends beyond just the consumption of alcohol.  Never use illegal drugs or drive while on prescription drugs that may impair your driving ability.

√ Safety Belts – A safety belt will ensure that you stop with your car.  Without it, you may end up being thrown from the vehicle if you are involved in a collision.

√ Speeding – Speeding greatly increases the chances of a collision and reduces the amount of time a motorist will have to avoid one.  Following the speed limits will decrease the chances of serious injury or even death in a collision

√ Attentiveness/Fatigue – Make sure your calls and text messages have been made before you drive.  If your phone rings let it go to voicemail and call the person back when you have reached your destination.  Make sure you are well rested before getting behind the wheel.