Traffic, Drunk Driving Expected During 4th Of July Week

Ahead of the Fourth of July holiday week, Rhode Island State Police will be stepping up patrols to crack down on unsafe driving. Starting this weekend throughout the week, extra troopers will be assigned to the state's highways, on the lookout for speeding as well as aggressive, distracted or drunken driving.

Traffic is expected to be heavy throughout the week. AAA Northeast reported that a record-breaking 41.4 million Americans are expected to hit the road for the Fourth of July holiday, with the heaviest delays in the Boston area expected to be on July 5 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Drivers are encouraged to leave extra time when driving on Fourth of July and during the week.

State Police Colonel James Manni reminded drivers to always buckle up when driving and make sure all passengers are wearing a seatbelt as well.

If you plan on drinking at a Fourth of July cookout, plan ahead. Designate a sober drivers, use a ride-sharing service or find another way to get home safely.

Manni also reminded drivers that Rhode Island state law now bans drivers from using any handheld electronic device while driving , which includes holding a phone to make a call, setting up GPS guidance, texting and driving and any other use that requires holding the device.

Anyone who sees someone driving unsafely is encouraged to report them to state police by calling 911.