BUFFALO, N.Y. — While celebrating Independence Day during this long weekend, be sure to do so responsibly.
On Friday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that state and local law enforcement agencies will be increasing patrols across New York to target impaired driving during the holiday weekend. The STOP-DWI campaign will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and continue through 3 a.m. Tuesday.
"State Police and local law enforcement agencies will once again be out in force on New York's roadways this holiday weekend," Hochul said. "We want New Yorkers to have fun celebrating the Fourth of July, but we also want them to do so responsibly. We have zero tolerance for drivers whose reckless actions endanger the lives of others and will hold those who do so accountable."
State Troopers will be conducting sobriety checkpoints and targeting reckless and aggressive driving across the state. The Fourth of July weekend is considered one of the biggest travel weekends of the summer.
During the Fourth of July weekend last year, State Police issued 10,238 traffic tickets. Troopers arrested 195 for DWI and almost 650 crashes, including two with fatalities, were investigated.
"The Fourth of July is known for its fun and fireworks, but New Yorkers should also remember that making the wrong decision to drive while impaired can result in tragedy. If your celebrations include alcohol, plan for a safe ride home, and if you're travelling this weekend, remember to put down the phone, follow posted speed limits, and always put safety first," New York State Police Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen said.