Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is reminding Kentuckians to drive sober and celebrate responsibly this Independence Day to help ensure safe roadways during the holiday weekend.
Drivers are advised to arrange a sober ride home ahead of time and should anticipate a higher law enforcement presence during the holiday weekend to prevent drunk driving incidents, since even a single drink can impair driving ability.
“As we celebrate this holiday weekend, we encourage everyone to make smart decisions so we can keep Kentucky’s roads safe for everyone,” Beshear said in a news release. “Drive sober, look out for your friends and family, and help anyone who has been drinking find a safe way home.”
Kentucky State Police records show that there were 55 crashes involving a drunken and/or drugged driver over the Fourth of July holiday period last year, which resulted in 30 injuries and three deaths.
As part of a nationwide effort, the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety is coordinating with local and state law enforcement to boost high-visibility patrols and sobriety checkpoints during the holiday season. KOHS also supplies a checkpoint truck with testing equipment and a checkpoint trailer for use by law enforcement partner agencies to use.
State officials advise planning your transportation in advance of festivities. They also recommend that anyone who is impaired should use rideshare services, taxis, public transportation, or rely on a sober friend or family member to ensure a safe trip home.
Motorists who spot a suspected impaired driver should safely pull over and contact law enforcement by calling 911 or the Kentucky State Police’s toll-free line at 800-222-5555. Residents are also encouraged to prevent impaired driving by taking the keys from anyone who is about to drive while impaired and helping them find a safe ride.