AAA, Nebraska State Patrol working to keep roads safe for Fourth of July

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — With gas prices down from last year, thousands are expected to hit Nebraska roads for the Fourth of July holiday.

AAA expects more than 43 million Americans to drive to their destinations. That’s up 2.4% from last year.

With so many people hitting the roads, there are many things to keep in mind.

SEE ALSO: Don’t blow it: Rules for lighting Fourth of July fireworks in Lincoln

Brian Ortner with Nebraska AAA said the key is to plan in advance and have patience.

“When there’s more people on the roads, it means there’ll be different people driving at different speeds, more congestion on the roads,” he said. 

His organization is offering a free service in an effort to keep impaired drivers off the road.

It’s activating the Tow to Go program in Nebraska and Iowa, offering a safe ride for would-be impaired drivers and their vehicles.

The service is available until Wednesday at 6 a.m. by calling 855-286-9246.

SEE ALSO: Lincoln Northwest boosters sell fireworks to help fledgling softball program

The Nebraska State Patrol is also urging all motorists to make plans to ensure a sober ride, such as designating a driver, using a ride-hailing app or calling a cab.

“We want everyone responsible behind the wheels,” Sgt. Justin Ferguson said. “If you’re going to a party with alcohol, I’d suggest having a sober driver, plan ahead and use an Uber or a Lyft to get home safely.”  

Troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime across the state thanks in part to a grant from
the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

SEE ALSO: Lincoln experts share how to keep pets calm when July Fourth ‘sounds like a battlefield’