MHP announces Independence Day 2024 implementation period

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) will be conducting its 2024 Independence Day holiday travel period.

The travel period will begin on Thursday, July 4 at 6:00 a.m. and end on Sunday, July 7 at midnight.

“As we prepare for this Independence Day weekend celebrations, let’s also commit to making safety a top priority,” said Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Sean Tindell. “Thank you to all of our law enforcement officers and first responders for continuing to work this long weekend to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday.”

According to officials, MHP will use a high-visibility patrol plan during the travel period to promote safe travel and reduce fatal crashes. Officers will monitor drivers to deter speeding and distracted driving, and will use safety checkpoints to encourage seat belt use and remove impaired drivers from the roadways.

“Independence Day is a wonderful time to come together with family and friends,” said Lt. Col. James Ivory, MHP deputy director. “The Mississippi Highway Patrol strives to provide vigilant and constant protection for our state and those who travel our roadways throughout the year, especially during the peak holiday season. Please be safe and smart when traveling.”
“Travel this long holiday weekend.”

During the 2023 holiday season, MHP investigated 76 crashes that resulted in four fatalities. There were also 49 arrests for drunk driving on state and federal highways, as well as 508 citations for violations of occupant restraint rules during the holiday season.