Alaska State Troopers increase highway patrol presence to prepare for Fourth of July weekend

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - Independence Day weekend is here, and Alaska State Troopers (AST) expect to see an increase in motorists driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

In response, an increased number of patrol officers will be on the highway starting July 1st through July 5th for DUI enforcement.

AST recommends those who intend to consume alcohol call a taxi, a friend, a family member or other responsible adult.

Troopers will also search for aggressive or distracted driving, speeding and seat belt usage. They are also encouraging citizens to Report Every Dangerous Driver Immediately with what is called a REDDI report.

Lieutenant Jessie Carson from the Alaska State Troopers in Fairbanks shared what happens after citizens call into the to file a report. ”If we have any available officers we send them that way to try to see if we can make sure that they’re okay to be on the roadway.”

Lt. Carson also added, “Have a great 4th of July and enjoy your weekend, just make sure everybody else can too by being safe.”

The REDDI reports should typically be submitted via the non-emergency number at 907-451-5100. Dialing 9-1-1 for these reports should only be done if a driver is exhibiting excessively dangerous behavior.

The Alaska Highway Safety Office website mentions, “Signs of dangerous driving may include:

• weaving in and out of lanes
• passing on curves and double yellow lines
• straddling the center line
• making wide or high speed turns out of assigned lanes
• driving so slowly as to impede other traffic under current conditions
• tailgating

When filing a REDDI report be prepared to include a description of the vehicle, license plate, and behavior of the driver.

More information on REDDI reports can be found at Alaska’s Department of Transportation website https://dot.alaska.gov/stwdplng/hwysafety/REDDI.shtml

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