Maryland Police Step Up Patrols for July 4th Weekend

State of MD - Maryland State Police want everyone to make it home safely after the Fourth of July. Troopers across the state, including here on the Eastern Shore, will be out in force this holiday weekend making sure drivers stay safe and sober.

From Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5, State Troopers will conduct high-visibility patrols statewide. The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort, known as SPIDRE, will also be on duty. This specialized unit is trained specifically to spot impaired drivers before they cause harm.

These patrols aren't just about writing tickets. State Police say the goal is to prevent dangerous driving behavior and save lives. That means working alongside other law enforcement agencies and reaching out to the community through social media and other outreach efforts.

If you're heading to a Fourth of July celebration this weekend, State Police have some simple advice. Pick a sober driver before the party starts and hand over your keys. If you know you'll be driving later, skip the drinks entirely.

Ride-sharing services and taxis are also good options if you're not sure you'll be sober enough to drive. And if a friend seems impaired, don't let them get behind the wheel. Call the police if you spot someone on the road who you believe is driving impaired.

Buckling up and staying off your phone matters too. Troopers are reminding drivers not to text or use a handheld cellphone while driving this weekend.

Hosting your own Fourth of July gathering? State Police want hosts to know they can be held legally responsible if a guest they served alcohol to later causes a crash. It's a good idea to serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks alongside any alcohol.

Make sure sober rides are lined up ahead of time, whether that's a designated driver or a rideshare option. Keep a few taxi numbers handy just in case. And if someone at your party is thinking about driving after drinking, take their keys.

Some of the funding for this weekend's increased patrols comes from the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration's Highway Safety Office. State Police say the extra effort is about keeping Maryland roads safe for everyone celebrating the holiday.