As the Independence Day celebrations approach, local residents are reminded by Pennsylvania State Police to prioritize safety, avoid aggressive driving behaviors, and never get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Pennsylvania State Police Troop M, which covers Bucks, Lehigh, and Northampton counties, announced the commencement of the Independence Day Holiday Enforcement period, aimed at ensuring public safety on the roads. The operation will begin at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday and will conclude at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4.
The safety initiative, known as P.A.D.E.E.P (Pennsylvania Aggressive Driving Enforcement Education Program), will target drivers who engage in aggressive behavior while operating their vehicles, posing a threat to the general public. This includes violations such as speeding, seat belt infractions, and child seat belt violations, troopers said.
Furthermore, troopers from the S.T.E.A.D.D. (Selective Traffic Enforcement Against Drunk Drivers) and D.R.E. (Drug Recognition Expert) units will be dedicated to stopping motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, state police said.
During the Independence Day Holiday Traffic Enforcement Period of 2022, Troop M responded to a total of 43 crashes. Additionally, they made 41 DUI arrests.
“Independence Day is a time for celebration, but before heading out to these celebrations we urge Pennsylvanians to keep safety in mind,” said PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Cheryl Moon-Sirianni. “If your celebration includes alcohol, plan ahead by designating a sober driver or arranging for alternate transportation. Never drive impaired.”
The enhanced state police enforcement will be funded statewide by $6 million from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
State officials won’t just be patrolling on the roads this holiday weekend.
Enhanced boating under the influence patrols will be taking place, according to state police, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources rangers, and Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission conservation officers.
“When you operate a boat while impaired, you’re risking your own life, the lives of everyone on board, and all others sharing the water around you,” said Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Tim Schaeffer. “Waterways conservation officers are trained to recognize signs of impairment and will be conducting enhanced BUI patrols throughout the holiday weekend. Please, don’t drink and boat.”
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