Police Department: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
The Deerfield Police Department kicked off its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Labor Day high-visibility enforcement campaign, aimed at preventing impaired driving and improving safety for all road users. The Initiative is sponsored by U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
According to NHTSA data, 10,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2019 that involved an alcohol-impaired driver. On average, more than 10,000 people were killed each year from 2015 to 2019. That is one life lost every 52 minutes. All road users are at risk. In 2019, an estimated 13 percent of fatal pedestrian crashes involved a drunk driver. The tragic loss of life is 100% preventable. Instead of driving under the influence, plan for a sober ride home.
Drivers can expect to see increased law enforcement presence on the road through September 6, 2021, as part of this traffic safety initiative to improve road safety and keep impaired drivers off the roadways. The initiative is supported by a $12 million national paid media campaign.
NHTSA has these recommendations to prevent impaired driving:
- Remember that it is never okay to drive impaired.
- Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver, plan to use public transportation, or use a ride service to go out and get back home safely. Even one drink can begin to impair your driving ability.
- If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact 911.