Area residents and visitors should expect to see more Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers on local roads and at the lakes throughout the July 4th weekend.
Capt. Ronnie Hampton, Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troop F Commander, said additional troopers will be on patrol throughout Troop F, which includes Carter, Love, Murray, Garvin, Johnston and Pontotoc counties.
OHP is utilizing overtime funding provided through the Oklahoma Office of Highway Safety to increase patrol efforts, according to Hampton.
“Our troopers will be focusing on general traffic enforcement in and around destination points throughout the weekend. We will be utilizing driver license and vehicle safety roadblocks to ensure that all motorists are properly licensed to drive and that their vehicles are in good working condition,” Hampton said.
But having an up-to-date driver’s licenses and being behind the wheel of a vehicle that isn’t a road hazard isn’t the only thing troopers will looking for.
“In addition our troopers will be watching for signs and symptoms associated with alcohol and drug intoxication as they make vehicle stops, we will have a zero tolerance for intoxicated drivers and motorists who fail to wear their safety belts.”
And the special emphasis doesn’t stop on the road. Hampton said the effort also includes the water and those operating boats and other water crafts on lakes within the Troop F area. Lake
Patrol troopers will be on the lookout for anyone driving under the influence or ignoring boating laws.
While Hampton said “most” motorists and boaters, “make good decisions and avoid driving recklessly and intoxicated,” the holiday enforcement emphasis is part of an ongoing effort by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol to take intoxicated drivers off roadways and lakes.
“Remember to do you part to make our roads and highways safe. If you are going to drink, please do not drive,” Hampton said.
