Written by Tyler Spivey

Alabama State Troopers will be stepping up their activity on the roadway for the Fourth of July holiday.

Kevin Cook, a trooper with the Dothan post, said that a safety blitz will begin at midnight tonight and will end at midnight on Sunday.

A safety blitz is when all available troopers will be on duty to assist motorists, enforce traffic laws, and deter distracted driving, in addition to their routine patrols.

The presence of the additional troopers will be a reminder for travelers to drive safely.

This year, travel is expected to increase from last year’s Independence Day, according to AAA. During the holiday, numerous motorists will be traveling to and from to celebrate and visit family.

“They need to plan out their trip,” said Cook, referring to those who plan to celebrate away from home.

One of the many things the state troopers will be on the look out for are alcohol and drug-related offenses.

“It’ll certainly be something that we’re going to be targeting,” said Cpl. Tommy Horton.

Horton urged anyone traveling this weekend to avoid any type of “aggressive driving” and to report any motorists who they suspect might be under the influence.

“Aggressive driving” is classified as participating in two or more dangerous activities while driving, these activities include speeding, following to closely, making unsafe lane changes and failing to yield right of way.

Col. Hugh B. McCall, director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety, shared his hopes for an incident-free holiday.

”Let’s work together, Alabama, to make this Fourth of July holiday travel period a safe one,” he said.

For more information or safety tips contact the Alabama State Troopers or the Alabama Department of Public Safety.