Troopers increase presence over July 4th holiday

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska State Patrol will be putting in extra hours on the road over the July 4th holiday in an effort to reduce the potential for serious injury and fatality crashes.

Beginning, Friday and running through Sunday, troopers and communications specialists will put in overtime hours thanks in part to an $11,925 grant from the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety.

“The 4th of July is a big travel holiday, meaning additional traffic on Nebraska roads,” said Col. Bradley Rice, superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “By making our troopers visible and available over the extended holiday weekend, we hope to reduce the potential for crashes and encourage voluntary compliance with all traffic safety laws.”

Motorists are reminded to always wear their seat belt, obey the posted speed limit and never drive impaired or distracted, Rice said. Highway improvement projects may alter routes. Travelers are encouraged to pay extra attention in work zones and are reminded that fines double when workers are present, he added.

For the most up to date weather and road condition report on your planned route, check 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System at http://www.511.nebraska.gov. A Nebraska 511 mobile app is also available to download at no cost for smartphone users. Ssearch your App provider for Nebraska 511.

Anyone who observes a reckless driver, or anyone in need of non-emergency roadside assistance should call the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline when safe to do so at *55 from their cellular phone at (800) 525-5555 from any landline. Motorists should report emergencies to 911.

“We want you to partner with us to make this a safe holiday weekend,” Rice added.