Md. Police Ramping Up Patrols For Busy 4th Of July Weekend
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The busiest travel weekend of the summer has started. If you're taking the road this Fourth of July weekend -- expect company.
The Maryland State Police Impaired Driving Effort -- or SPIDRE team -- is ramping up patrols for the next five days. SPIDRE will be targeting areas where people are likely to drive drunk.
"We may not catch you tonight, we may not catch you tomorrow night, but we will catch you," said 1st Sgt. David Ryan, head of the SPIDRE team.
Transportation officials say Fourth of July weekend is the busiest travel weekend of the summer, and the deadliest for drivers.
"Nearly 600 people have lost their lives on the nation's roadways on July 4 in the last five years," said Christine Nizer, MVA administrator.
Christine Delise with AAA Mid-Atlantic says low gas prices and consumer confidence means this holiday travel weekend will be one for the books.
"Whether driving, flying or taking the train, we're expecting a record number of travelers," she said.
AAA predicts travel will be up 1.3 percent nationwide compared to last year, and that 890,000 Marylanders will leave town.
This year's Independence Day travel numbers are expected to be the highest since AAA began tracking them in 2001.
As usual, most people plan on driving. A whopping 87 percent of travelers will take the road, and another 7 percent will fly.
"Too many people on the road. Too many accidents. I'd rather just stay local, go to family outings," said Michelle Julius, driver.
AAA is encouraging drivers to leave as early as possible or late in the evening to avoid delays.
According to the AAA, hotel rates and airfare are also cheaper this year.
