FHP Stepping Up Patrols For Long Holiday Weekend

July 4, 2008

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is stepping up its enforcement operations for the July Fourth holiday weekend.

“The men and women of the Florida Highway Patrol will be teaming up with law enforcement officers across the state to provide the safest possible driving environment for our visitors and residents during the Independence Day holiday driving period,” stated Colonel John T. Czernis, director of the Florida Highway Patrol.

In order to ensure a safe holiday experience for everyone, the Patrol statewide will increase visibility and enforcement efforts until midnight Sunday, July 6. The FHP will target three specific causes of highway fatalities: speeding, impaired driving and failure to use occupant restraints.

“We want the public to understand that drunk driving is no accident. It’s one of Florida’s most often committed crimes that accounts for one-third of all traffic fatalities. If you choose to drink and drive during this Fourth of July holiday period, law enforcement officers will catch and arrest you,” added Colonel Czernis.

This strategy is intended to increase the Patrol’s presence on major roadways throughout Florida in an effort to increase public compliance of traffic laws and to provide enhanced services to motorists who find themselves in need of assistance. In addition, our Auxiliary and Reserve troopers will be volunteering their time to assist regular troopers during the heightened holiday enforcement weekend.

Motorists are reminded to use their cellular phones safely. FHP urges all drivers to call *FHP (*347) to report drunk or aggressive drivers. They can also use this number if their vehicle breaks down or need assistance. Motorists needing immediate emergency services should dial 911.

For real-time traffic and road condition reports, as well as maps and other safety tips, the public is urged to visit the FHP website at www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/. Florida drivers can also call 511 on their cell phone for up-to-the minute updates on traffic congestion, road construction, lane closures, severe weather and travel delays on Interstates and major highways.

The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles encourages anyone with a valid Florida driver license or identification card to go online to www.flhsmv.gov and enter their emergency contact information. This vital information gives law enforcement immediate access to this information in cases of an emergency, which makes it easier for them to contact a family member or friend.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News