In Spartanburg, South Carolina, as the 4th of July approaches, local law enforcement is ramping up highway patrols. The Spartanburg Police Department is collaborating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to emphasize awareness about impaired driving through education and increased visibility on the roads.
Captain Tim Suber of the Spartanburg Police Department highlights the potential for heightened alcohol consumption during holidays. He stresses the importance of safe and responsible behavior among motorists who choose to drink. “Our focus is on traffic enforcement for DUI detection, alongside providing educational resources to ensure motorists understand their responsibilities when consuming alcohol,” he explains.
Statistics reveal a concerning trend: between 2018 and 2022, over 2,200 fatal crashes occurred during the Fourth of July holiday period. In 2022 alone, 487 individuals lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents over the holiday. “We recognize an increase in fatalities during this time, largely due to incidents involving drinking and driving,” Suber notes. The aim is to raise public awareness about these risks and encourage individuals to consider safer alternatives when traveling.
Options such as rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, or having a designated driver, are strongly recommended to mitigate the dangers associated with impaired driving.