CT State Police To Be Out In Force On Roads Over July 4 Weekend

CONNECTICUT — The state police are predicting heavier than normal traffic for the three-day Independence Day weekend, and they are gearing up for it.

There has already been an uptick in the number of cars on the highways, according to information released by state troopers on Tuesday.

"That will likely continue as many residents have July 3 off from work and beaches, barbecues and other activities beckon," said State Police Colonel Stavros Mellekas.

Troopers from each of the agency's 11 units will be conducting roving DUI patrols from the evening of July 1 through the evening of July 5.

Troopers are emphasizing the following safety tips and laws in the run-up to the long weekend:

• Buckle up
• Obey speed limits
• Don't follow too close
• Remove distractions while driving
• Stay off the cellphone
• Never drink and drive

Mellekas is drawing particular attention to Connecticut's "Move Over" law which requires motorists approaching stationary emergency vehicles to immediately slow to a speed below the posted speed limit and, if traveling in the lane adjacent to an emergency vehicle, to move over one lane, unless it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so.

An "emergency vehicle" is any with activated flashing lights including ambulances, fire vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles or licensed wreckers.

"We know that many residents are anxious to get outside and enjoy the summer weather as the state continues to re-open. On behalf of the Connecticut State Police, I ask you to be our partners in keeping roadways safe this weekend and throughout the summer," Mellekas said.