MD State Police To Increase Patrols Over Fourth Of July Weekend

MARYLAND — Maryland authorities will increase patrols on state roads and waterways this Fourth of July weekend to combat impaired, aggressive and distracted driving.

According to a release from state police, troopers from all 23 barracks will conduct high-visibility patrols on interstates and major corridors starting Wednesday and continuing through Monday.

The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort team will also be out to identify impaired drivers, authorities said.

Drivers are likely to see increased patrols and traffic stops on the following roads this Fourth of July:

• Eastern Maryland: Major routes including 50, 13, 413 and work zones.
• Central Maryland: Interstates 495, 70 and 695. The Rockville Barrack will also partner with Montgomery County police to conduct a DUI checkpoint on Friday along MD Route 650.
• Western Maryland: Interstates 68, 70 and Route 219.
• Northern Maryland: Harford and Cecil counties, including routes 22, 24, 40, 1 and 213.
• Southern Maryland: Route 50, Interstates 695 and 97, and other state roads.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will also partner with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators to increase enforcement efforts on state waterways. Boaters can expect heightened patrols on July 4-6.

"Because of the high volume of activity during the July 4 holiday, it’s statistically one of the most dangerous times on Maryland’s waterways," Maryland DNR officials said in a release. "Boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major issue not just in Maryland, but nationwide."

Natural Resources Police Col. Orlando Lilly said boaters should expect increased patrols in nearly every Maryland county. Authorities will also be conducting vessel checks.

In Maryland, an individual convicted of operating a boat or other vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs could face up to a year in prison and revocation of their boating license.

"Operation Dry Water gives us opportunities to educate boaters on the dangers of drinking and operating, as well as removing unsafe and impaired operators from our waterways when necessary," Lilly said.

More information about boating safety and regulations in Maryland can be found by visiting dnr.maryland.gov/nrp.