By MATT PIKE
St. Joseph Post
Drivers will see an increased amount of traffic as they head out to celebrate the Fourth of July.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is preparing for a larger number of drivers traveling through the holiday weekend.
Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the patrol holiday counting period will start today.
"And the holiday counting period goes all the way through Monday the 4th," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, like I said there will be an increase in traffic flow out there."
With the the holiday fallling on a Monday, Hux says there's a chance you could also see more drivers on the road on Tuesday as well.
"But, most people I'm assuming will have to go back to work on Tuesday, so that influx of traffic will again be, we're planning on it being on Monday," Hux says.
Fireworks will be filling the sky as drivers travel at night over the Independence Day weekend.
Hux says the main thing to do when driving at night, is to not get distracted by the fireworks.
"And take your eye off the road, so just pay attention, devote 100% of your attention to driving at all times, it's great for the passengers inside the vehicle to enjoy those fireworks displays," Hux explains. "But, if there is something you want to see along the side of the road make sure you do pull over and stop."
Hux says the highway patrol unfortunately sees a higher number of intoxicated drivers during the holiday.
"Fourth of July is an outdoor event, lots of barbecues and people going to the lake, and last year in 2021 the highway patrol arrested 80 intoxicated drivers during that time period, which it was a four day travel period last year as well," he says.
Hux says if you have been drinking during your celebrations, you should make sure to have a designated driver or find another way to get home.