Law enforcement will be out in force this weekend, starting today (Friday), as part of their Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) initiative, but authorities remind motorists there are other dangers on the road beyond impaired drivers. AAA estimated approximately 43.6 million Americans are planning to travel by automobile over the Fourth of July, and Iowa State Patrol Trooper, Shelby McCreedy, says a larger percentage of drivers will be hauling campers, boats and other recreational equipment with them.
Unlike semi-tractor drivers, motorists hauling heavy trailers simply are not as familiar with the practice and may need a little extra room to maneuver.
During the 2019 Fourth of July weekend, which is the most recent data year available, five people lost their lives on Iowa’s roadways. McCreedy says a zero fatality holiday is possible, but only if everybody does their part by buckling up, slowing down and giving their full attention to the road. The STEP initiative with increased law enforcement presence runs from Friday, July 2 through Monday, July 5.
