The Fourth of July weekend is historically one of the most dangerous for drivers on Iowa’s roadways as many people travel to be with family and friends for the holiday. In an effort to curb the increase in unsafe driving habits over Independence Day, the Iowa State Patrol will be out in higher-than-usual numbers beginning today (Friday), according to District Four Public Resource Officer Shelby McCreedy.
Officials recorded five deaths over the 2020 Fourth of July holiday, four of which were alcohol-related. That figure climbed to seven in 2021. With a three-day weekend for many ahead, McCreedy says the likelihood for impaired drivers is much higher.
She adds there is nothing wrong with going out and celebrating, but it is essential that people make a plan and follow through on it.
McCreedy reminds motorists to obey speed limits and wear seatbelts when traveling this weekend. As of Thursday, the 2022 Iowa traffic fatality count stood at 147. That figure is five deaths more than this time last year and nine percent higher than the five-year average.
