This week, a lot of motorists will be on Alabama roadways, so it would be wise to stay home.

But, if you must drive, be careful out there.

The Alabama Department of Public Safety estimates that seven people will be killed in automobile accidents on state roadways during the 30-hour holiday – beginning at 6 p.m. on Tuesday and ending at midnight on Wednesday.

State troopers will be out in force during the Fourth of July, enforcing all traffic laws, assisting motorists, and serving as visible reminders to drive safely, obey speed limits, buckle up and refrain from drinking and driving.

Troopers especially will target impaired drivers during the July 4 holiday period, said Col. J. Christopher Murphy, director of the Department of Public Safety.

Troopers will set up checkpoints, as well as a variety of special enforcement details to ensure that drunk drivers are taken off the roads.

“By removing impaired and other dangerous drivers from the roadways, troopers have a direct impact on protecting the safety of Alabamians and visitors to our state,” Murphy said.

He said overtime grants administered through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and the Alabama Department of Transportation would support increased patrols during the holiday.

Murphy urged motorists to join troopers in making safety a priority during the holiday period, and he asked them to buckle up on each and every trip.

After all, seat belts save lives.

Motorists can report drunk drivers and other highway emergencies to state troopers by dialing *HP (*47) on their cell phones.

Stay safe during this holiday week by obeying the rules of the road.

And if you do plan to drink, have a designated driver.