KSP urges Kentuckians to drive sober, keep roads safe Independence Day weekend

by Tom Latek, Kentucky Today

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (KT) – As Kentuckians celebrate Independence Day, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) have joined law enforcement agencies nationwide for Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), taking place now through July 6. 
The KSP says this high-visibility enforcement effort is focused on preventing impaired driving and keeping roadways safe during one of the busiest travel holidays of the year. 
“Impaired driving is one of the most preventable risks on our roadways,” said  Captain Jeremy Smith, Commander of the KSP’s Elizabethtown Post. “When you choose to drive under the influence, you risk more than being arrested. You put lives in danger, including your own. We are asking everyone to celebrate responsibly. Do not let a poor choice take away your freedom or someone else’s.” 
In 2024, KSP collision data shows 3,762 crashes involving alcohol throughout the state. 115 of those crashes involved fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 2,653 people killed nationwide in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period from 2019 to 2023. Forty percent of the drivers killed were impaired.  
KSP troopers will strategically patrol highways and rural routes, with an increased focus on identifying drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The goal is to stop impaired drivers before a tragedy occurs. Here are a few ways to stay safe this Fourth of July:  
--Plan a safe ride. Designate a sober driver, call a friend or use a ride service. Never drive impaired.   
--Host responsibly. If you are serving alcohol at your celebration, make sure guests have a safe way to get home.   
--Watch for warning signs. If someone appears too impaired to drive, take their keys and help them make other arrangements.   
--Be the example. Buckle up, stay sober behind the wheel and encourage others to do the same.   
KSP’s presence on the roads this holiday weekend underscores the agency’s commitment to protecting all Kentuckians. With your help, we can keep this Independence Day celebration safe and free from preventable tragedies. If you see someone suspected of driving under the influence, call 911 or contact KSP at 800-222-5555. 





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