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Expect to see more cops on the road around 4th of July

No matter where your Independence Day celebrations take you, expect to see more police on the roads than normal. Several law enforcement agencies have announced...
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No matter where your Independence Day celebrations take you, expect to see more police on the roads than normal.

Several law enforcement agencies have announced increased enforcement for the Fourth of July holiday.  Police will be watching for impaired drivers as well as those who are not buckled up.

Fourth of July weekend “is one of the deadliest on the nation’s roadways,” said the Iowa Department of Public Safety (IDPS).  IDPS announced that from July 1 – 7, they plan to have extra officers on the roadways watching for impaired drivers.

A statement from Rock Island County said their patrols will join a statewide effort in cracking down on impaired and unsafe drivers. They plan to focus on the evening hours because “statistics show a disproportionate number of traffic deaths occur late at night and involve a drunk driver and/or unbuckled motorist.”

Sheriff Gerry Bustos said their “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is a “zero tolerance” campaign.

“For everyone’s sake, don’t drink and drive or you will be arrested,” Bustos said.

If your celebration plans include alcohol, police advise you get prepared. Designating a sober driver before the festivities begin can help.  You can also use taxi or mass transit services if you have been drinking.

“Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears their seat belt,” police said. “It is your best defense against a drunk driver.”

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