Expect increased police presence, road blocks this weekend

By: Laura Hettiger | WCBD
Published: July 01, 2011

Red, white and DUI—that’s how some people in the Lowcountry will remember this 4^th of July weekend.

“We’re serious about getting these drunk drivers off the roadways,” said Trooper Bob Beres with the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

Road blocks will be set up around the area to check for drunk drivers. Police will ask for the driver’s license, car registration and proof of insurance. The checkpoints are not to arrest people; they are to ensure the safety of other people on the road as well.

“I’d appreciate it if other people wouldn’t drink and drive,” Mt. Pleasant resident Beth Walters said. “But I can’t control what other people do; I can only control what I do.”

Walters said she is going to celebrate this weekend, but do it responsibly. Her group of friends has already designated a sober driver and she is going to a party where the guests are bringing tents to camp out in the backyard.

Beres said having a plan before hitting the party or beach is the safest option.

“You already know where you’re going to go and when you’re going to go and who you’re going to celebrate with, so just have a plan of how you’re going to get home,” Beres said.

The 4^th of July is the middle of the 100 deadliest days of summer. Last summer, Beres said 200 people lost their lives on the South Carolina roadways between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Beres said this particular holiday is dangerous because it combines fireworks, alcohol, boats and vehicles.