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Ventura, CA- The Ventura Police Department reminds drivers to plan ahead and celebrate the holiday safely and responsibly.
Through Monday, July 4, the Ventura Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
In 2020, nearly 500 people were killed in traffic collisions throughout the country during the Fourth of July weekend and 41% of those deadly crashes involved alcohol.
“If you plan on drinking this weekend, designate a sober driver or have a plan in place before heading out,” said Officer Chris Wilson. “Consider your family, friends, and loved ones before thinking about driving after you’ve had a few drinks. The decision to find a sober ride home is truly lifesaving.”
According to AAA Southern California, more than five million Californians will travel over the 4th of July holiday. With most traveling by car, allow extra time to get to your destination and do not drive distracted.
While some festivities may include alcohol, driving under the influence also includes impairment from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and marijuana. Be informed about how certain drugs may affect your driving ability.
If you are hosting friends and family for barbecues and watching fireworks shows, offer non-alcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers.
If you see someone who appears impaired or who is driving recklessly, call 9-1-1.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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