Nebraska State Patrol encouraging safe travel during Independence Day weekend

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – With Independence Day right around the corner, the Nebraska State Patrol is encouraging drivers to stay safe this weekend.

Troopers will be on patrol across Nebraska to maintain safe roads and assist drivers in need of help.

“As we celebrate our great country this weekend, we encourage all people to be safe,” Col. John Bolduc said in a press release.  “Make safe decisions on the road and with any Fourth of July celebrations. If any part of your weekend involves alcohol, make sure to have a sober driver lined-up.”

Those who may not have a sober driver lined up could use services like AAA’s Tow to Go program, which will be available all weekend by calling 855-2-TOW-2-GO.

From 2016-2020, nearly 1,4000 drivers were killed in crashes on the days surrounding the Fourth of July, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Of those crashes, 41 percent involved a drunk driver, according to the patrol.

“This weekend will be filled with parties, fireworks, and fun,” Bolduc said.  “Let’s all work together to make sure that’s how we remember this Fourth of July, rather than for a tragedy on the roads.”