Encouraging responsible celebrations and sober driving for Kentuckians during the Independence Day weekend by KOHS.
The Kentucky Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is urging residents to celebrate Independence Day responsibly, particularly when it comes to alcohol consumption and driving. According to KOHS, during the Fourth of July holiday period, impaired driving crashes significantly increase. Last year, there were 93 crashes involving a drunk and/or drugged driver, resulting in 41 injuries and 8 deaths over the holiday[1].
To combat this heightened risk, KOHS and Kentucky law enforcement are coordinating with national efforts such as the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign. Measures include high-visibility patrols and sobriety checkpoints, especially during peak holiday travel times[1]. Kentucky State Police also participate in initiatives like Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), which runs during the Fourth of July weekend to enforce impaired driving laws vigorously[2].
The official safety message stresses that even one drink can impair driving ability. Therefore, Kentuckians are urged to:
- Plan a sober designated driver before festivities begin - Use ride services or other sober transportation options - Never get behind the wheel if impaired
Governor Andy Beshear emphasized personal responsibility, saying that driving under the influence endangers not only the driver but others on the road, urging everyone to make smart choices to keep the holiday safe and joyful[1].
In addition to increased law enforcement presence, KOHS uses crash and fatality data to guide enforcement and public messaging. Public awareness campaigns remind drivers that "Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving" and promote the use of sober designated drivers[1]. KOHS also collaborates with local and state law enforcement on initiatives like the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign and Operation C.A.R.E.[2]
Transportation Secretary Jim Gray warned that using drugs or alcohol and driving puts everyone on the road in danger. If you see an impaired driver, safely pull over and contact law enforcement (Kentucky State Police's toll-free line: 800-222-5555 or 911)[1]. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements[1].
Wearing a seat belt is crucial for safety; it's both the law and the best defense against an impaired driver. Buckling up helps prevent injury and death if you are involved in a crash[1]. For more information, visit kyhighwaysafety.com[1].
This multi-pronged approach aims to reduce impaired driving crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the busy holiday travel and celebration period in Kentucky[1][2]. By following these safety measures, Kentuckians can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday for all.
**Summary of key safety measures by KOHS for Fourth of July in Kentucky:**
| Measure | Description | |-----------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Public awareness campaigns | Reminding drivers "Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving"; promoting sober designated drivers | | Law enforcement efforts | Increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints coordinated statewide during holiday period | | Collaborative initiatives | Participation in national campaigns like "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Operation C.A.R.E." | | Data-driven focus | Using state crash and fatality statistics to guide enforcement and public messaging |
- The Kentucky Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is urging residents to prioritize safety during the Fourth of July, particularly in regard to transportation and alcohol consumption.
- KOHS and Kentucky law enforcement are collaborating with national campaigns like "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" to enforce impaired driving laws thoroughly.
- In light of the increased risk of accidents, Kentuckians are advised to plan for a sober designated driver, use ride services, or choose other transportation options that don't require driving under the influence.
- Governor Andy Beshear emphasized personal responsibility, stating that driving under the influence puts lives at risk and urged everyone to make smart choices for a safe holiday.
- KOHS uses crash and fatality data to inform enforcement and public messaging, and their campaigns remind drivers that "Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving".
- Transportation Secretary Jim Gray stressed the importance of wearing seat belts and urged the public to report impaired drivers to law enforcement.
- This approach, which involves public awareness campaigns, law enforcement efforts, collaborative initiatives, and a data-driven focus, aims to reduce impaired driving crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the busy holiday period.
- By following these safety measures, Kentuckians can contribute to a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday for all.
