Drive safely this July Fourth holiday

Motorists in Mississippi are encouraged to travel safely this July Fourth holiday.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol’s 2024 Independence Day Holiday Travel Period begins at 6 a.m. Thursday, July 4, and continues until midnight, Sunday, July 7.

“As we make the plans to celebrate this Independence Day weekend, let’s also commit to making safety a top priority,” said Commissioner Sean Tindell. “Thank you to all of our law enforcement and first responders for continuing to work through this long weekend to ensure everyone enjoys a fun and safe holiday.”

MHP will utilize a high-visibility patrolling plan across the four-day period to promote safe travel and to reduce fatal crashes. Troopers will monitor motorists to deter speeding and distracted driving, and use safety checkpoints to encourage seatbelt and child restraint use, and remove impaired drivers from the roadways.

“The Independence Day Holiday is a wonderful opportunity to gather with family and friends,” said, Lt. Col. James Ivory, MHP Assistant Director. “The Mississippi Highway Patrol strives to provide vigilant and consistent protection for our state and those who travel our roadways throughout the year, especially during the busy holiday travel season. Be safe and smart as you travel during this long holiday weekend.”
During the 2023 travel period, MHP investigated 76 crashes resulting in 30 injuries and four fatalities — in Panola, Marion, Chickasaw and Itawamba counties. There were 49 DUI arrests, and 508 citations for restraint violations. The number of citations were lower than 2022’s totals.

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