Throughout the Independence Day holiday and weekend, law enforcement officials will focus on improving roadway safety for those traveling across the state as part of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s annual safety campaign.

 KDOT, the Kansas Turnpike Authority and the Kansas Highway Patrol also encourage motorists to concentrate on safe driving habits and plan ahead before the festivities begin.

 Captain Candice Breshears of the Kansas Highway Patrol reminds drivers and passengers to buckle up getting in a vehicle, and don’t drive impaired or distracted.

 KDOT says the state recorded a total of 2,158 alcohol-related crashes in 2021, with 86 people losing their lives in those crashes.

Across the United States in 2021, there were 2,226 people killed in alcohol-related crashes where the driver had a BAC between .01% to .07%, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 For assistance on a Kansas highway, call KHP at *47 or *582 for the Kansas Turnpike.