July 4 Travel Surge: Police and TXDOT Warn Drivers

(Tyler, Texas) Fourth of July weekend is here, and that means more traffic and more patience will be required to get to where you're going this weekend.

Many East Texans are fortunate to have and enjoy a three-day holiday weekend, and some people will travel to celebrate the holiday with friends and family. As we've seen lately, travel on the interstate can become deadly. Stay alert and be courteous while behind the wheel.

The City of Tyler Police Department announced it will be increasing the number of officers on the road this Fourth of July weekend with the goal of increasing public safety.

Tyler PD Public Information Officer Andy Erbaugh tells KETK that the department will be stationing more officers throughout the city this holiday weekend.

How Tyler Police Plan to Keep Roads Safer

Tyler Police will use Texas's STEP (Selective Traffic Enforcement Program) when it comes to dealing with traffic and intoxicated drivers. Officers will particularly be on the lookout for impaired or intoxicated drivers.

Intoxicated and impaired drivers aren't just on the road after 2 a.m. when the bars and clubs close down; they're on the road during all hours of the day.

READ MORE --> Tyler's Worst Intersections

Increased Patrols Already Visible in Tyler Neighborhoods

Just this morning, I happened to notice a congregation of Tyler officers in the Hollytree subdivision while on my way to work. I use Hollytree Drive as an alternative to Old Jacksonville Hwy. in Tyler, and when I rounded the corner doing my 30 mph, three officers were standing in a cul-de-sac with what appeared to be handheld radar checking the speed of vehicles going through the neighborhood.

Record-Breaking July 4 Travel Expected Nationwide

This 4th of July, AAA estimates that 61.6 million people will be traveling by car, up 2.2% from last year. They say peak travel times begin today (Wednesday, July 2nd) and Sunday, July 6th.

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What Drivers Can Do to Stay Safe This Holiday

TXDOT urges Texas drivers to use caution on Texas roadways this holiday following the two major crashes along I-20 within the last week. Drivers should be well-rested, alert, and courteous.

Drivers should never drink and drive. If you've had alcoholic beverages during a 4th of July event, you should wait until you are sober to drive home, have someone take you home, or arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service to get you home safely.

Above all, be alert and courteous while on the road this holiday.