Once again this year, the Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau is partnering with local law enforcement to remind Iowans to avoid drinking and driving this July 4th holiday.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign will see increased law enforcement presence from July 1-5, with the primary goal of preventing tragedies previously seen during this time.

In 2021, 538 people died in motor vehicle crashes over the July 4th holiday. In the state of Iowa, 57% of last year’s holiday weekend traffic fatalities were alcohol related.

Chief Deputy for the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, Brandon Marquardt, advises all Iowans who plan to celebrate the holiday to do the right thing. “Find a ride. Stay where you’re at. It isn’t worth it. We go out at these different times and particularly look for intoxicated drivers.”

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa roadways using federally funded grants.