4th Of July DUI Checkpoint, Extra Patrols In CT: Here's What You Need To Know

CONNECTICUT — From unmarked vehicles motorists would never think are being driven by police to traditional drunken driving spot checks, state police said Tuesday they will be out in full force this July 4 holiday weekend to keep the roads safe.

In an announcement Tuesday afternoon, troopers said they will employ all methods of enforcement to increase highway safety, including laser units for speed enforcement, along with marked and unmarked, non-traditional police vehicles to patrol roadways.

In addition, state Police at Troop A in Southbury will conduct a drunken driving spot check from 7 p.m. Saturday through 3 a.m. Sunday at Interstate 84's westbound Exit 18 off-ramp. That appears to be the lone state police spot check announced.

State police said the timing of the Fourth of July holiday being on Monday will lead to a four-day weekend and even more revelry than past years.

Police said they are preparing for the upcoming long weekend filled with Fourth of July celebrations. As a result, troopers are stepping up patrols as thousands of drivers will be traveling the roads and highways across the state.

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Police said that for 2022, they envision a four-day weekend that starts Friday and continues over to Monday, the observed day of celebration.

As more folks go to beach outings, cookouts and fireworks shows, officers expect traffic to increase starting Thursday and continuing through Monday evening.

As a result, state police said troopers will also be out, ensuring safe driving and conducting drunken driving roving patrols.

"As always, Troopers will consistently work toward preventing accidents on Connecticut’s roads and highways," according to the notice issued Tuesday afternoon.

Among the tips police have for motorists are: Buckle up; adhere to the speed limit; put down cell phones; and "please concentrate on the primary job when behind the wheel —driving."

Drivers should also plan for traffic delays due to possible traffic and road construction.

Police also remind motorists of Connecticut’s “Move Over” law, which requires drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles to slow below the posted speed limit and, if traveling in the lane adjacent to a vehicle, move over one lane, unless it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so.

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

As with any holiday that frequently involves drinking, police said people should designate a driver.
And, they said, if you are on the road and suspect a drunken driver, call 911, as "this is a true emergency."

“On behalf of the Connecticut State Police, I ask all drivers to be our partners in keeping roadways safe this weekend and throughout the summer,” said State Police Col. Stavros Mellekas.

“Everyone — including troopers — wants to make it safely to their destinations. We ask all motor vehicle operators to follow state law to keep themselves, their passengers and all first responders safe while on the roads.”