PennDOT, Safety Partners Urge Sober Driving and Boating Ahead of Independence Day

In advance of Fourth of July celebrations, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and its safety partners are reminding motorists of the dangers of impaired driving and boating.

Representatives from PennDOT, the Pennsylvania DUI Association, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Highway Safety Network, the Pennsylvania State Police, and various law enforcement agencies hosted a media event Monday at Pymatuning State Park to bring awareness to the current crackdown on driving under the influence.

A statewide Fourth of July impaired driving enforcement period kicked off on June 17, 2024, and extends through Sunday, July 7, 2024. During this campaign, law enforcement agencies throughout the state actively participate in activities geared at deterring impaired drivers from getting behind the wheel.

According to PennDOT data, there were 302 crashes statewide last year from 12:00 AM on Independence Day to 6:00 AM on July 5, 2023, resulting in five fatalities and 197 injuries. Of these crashes, three of the fatalities were the result of impaired driving.

"As you take part in Fourth of July festivities, be vigilant and never allow a friend or family member to drive impaired," said Maggie Nunley, a Regional Program Administrator for the Pennsylvania DUI Association. "Watch for obvious signs of impairment such as slurred speech, flushed face, or sudden changes in behavior. When in doubt, take action and arrange for a sober ride home. This simple action could save their life."

Alcohol, prescription and over the counter medications, illegal drugs, and other substances can impair someone's ability to drive by slowing coordination, judgement, and reaction times. Some medications can also cause extreme drowsiness or dizziness.

Pennsylvania law prohibits individuals from operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Likewise, no person is permitted to operate a watercraft under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Data from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission shows that there were 39 boating-under-the-influence arrests in 2023.

"Waterways are a premier destination for recreation during holiday weekends and visitors have a duty to celebrate responsibly," said Dan Bickel, the Park Operations Manager at Pymatuning State Park. "Do your part to help keep everyone safe by not consuming alcohol inside any of Pennsylvania's state parks and never driving a vehicle or boat while impaired by drugs or alcohol."

For more information on impaired driving, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.

Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Crawford, Erie, Forest, Mercer, Venango, and Warren counties at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/District1.

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