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RI Troopers: Keep Roads Safe July Fourth Weekend

The Rhode Island State Police are stationed in several barracks throughout RI. Each week Troopers make multiple RI arrests recorded in the RI Trooper log.
RI Trooper Log
The Rhode Island State Police are stationed in several barracks throughout RI.

More than 47.7 million Americans are expected to hit the roads for the July 4 weekend, a near-full recovery of traffic to pre-pandemic levels, and State Police have some reminders as you join what will be the second-highest Independence Day travel volume on record.

According to AAA,  just 2.5 percent fewer Americans are expected to travel this year compared to Independence Day in 2019. That’s an increase of nearly 40 percent compared to last year, when travel fell to 34.2 million.

The RI State Police noted they’ll be joining Rhode Islanders on the road to enforce traffic laws, and urged drivers to help make sure everyone gets where they’re going safely.

“This is going to be a busy weekend on Rhode Island’s roadways,” said Col. James M. Manni, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Director of the Department of Public Safety. “Buckle up, slow down, drive safely and enjoy the Fourth of July responsibly. If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs and you choose to get behind the wheel of a vehicle, you put everyone on the road in danger, including yourself.”
The Rhode Island State Police offered the following safety tips and reminders:
  • Don’t drink and drive. If you are heading to a holiday event, make a plan to get home safely.
  • Buckle up. Drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts at all times, and children must be properly secured in a child safety seat.
  • Don’t text and drive. Rhode Island law prohibits the use of handheld cell phones and other devices, and it is illegal to text and drive.  Set up your mapping app before you start your car, pay attention to the road and other motorist.
  • Allow extra time. More motorists are expected to travel this long holiday weekend, so allow extra time to get to your destination and avoid driving during peak travel periods, when possible.
  • Stay alert. Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving.
Rob Borkowski
Author: Rob Borkowski

Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.

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