Please Celebrate Responsibly This 4th of July Weekend

Did you know that nearly 50% of all fatal crashes occur during the summer? And that 45% of all serious injury crashes in Montana happen between June and September? This period of time is known nationally as the "100 Deadliest Days." These 100 Deadliest Days in Montana have also represented 50% of the annual roadway fatalities involving impaired drivers.

To try and keep those fatalities down during this time and this July 4th weekend, local law enforcement in Bozeman along with the Highway Patrol across the state would like to remind Montana motorist to drive sober or get pulled over.

There is no excuse for driving while impaired,” said Captain Andy Knight. “It’s every driver’s responsibility to be sober and take traffic safety seriously – for themselves, their friends and family, and everyone else on the road.

Captain Knight encourages everyone to make a responsible plan before the Fourth of July celebrations begin:

• Have a designated driver picked out if you are going to be drinking.
• Order a ride share.
• If you're not drinking, offer to driver those who are.

Remember, it is illegal to drive in Montana with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of .08 or higher. Getting arrested for drinking while driving will put a DUI charge on your record. You could also have your driver’s license revoked, be ordered to take mandatory classes, or you could get possible jail time with up to $10,000 in fines and legal fees. And in the event you are involved in an impaired driving crash, the cost can be serious injury or even death.

Local law enforcement is asking you to do your part to help Montana reach Vision Zero – zero deaths and zero serious injuries on our roads – by always driving sober, buckling up and calling 911 to report suspected impaired driving.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day Weekend!