State Police are encouraging drivers to stay attentive and sober as one of the busiest travel periods of the year begins for the 4th of July weekend. Trooper Thomas Gossen said law enforcement will be out in full force from now until Monday as part of the nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

“We’re looking for impaired drivers and also aggressive drivers that are also putting the public in danger,” said Gossen.

In 2019 during the July Fourth holiday period, there were 70 alcohol-involved crashes that resulted in three people being killed and 97 people being injured.

Gossen said Louisiana State Police are also working in conjunction with law enforcement in neighboring states along I-10 for the three-day weekend.

“We’re going to be able to place extra manpower on I-10 along that route and what we’re doing is we’re going to be removing impaired drivers. We’re trying to reduce those crashes, promote that seatbelt usage, and obviously deter speeding,” said Gossen.

Last year about sixty percent of drivers and passengers killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts. Gossen said if you are going to be impaired have a designated driver and always buckle up. If you encounter an aggressive driver, Gossen has a few tips.

“Slow down a little bit, and let those aggressive drivers get away from you, don’t try to block someone in or get in the left lane and try to slow people down. That is actually against the law,” said Gossen.

To report impaired drivers, you can dial star-L-S-P from your cellphone (*577).

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