Drive sober or get pulled over during holiday season
As families and friends get together for the holidays, the WisDOT asks everyone to celebrate the season safely. The Division of State Patrol and law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin, will step up enforcement for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign.
The national effort runs through New Year’s Day, with the goal is to prevent tragedies during the holidays, by boosting patrols to get impaired drivers off the road.
“We need every driver to think of their family and friends when getting behind the wheel,” said State Patrol superintendent Anthony Burrell. “Always make responsible decisions. Never drink and drive.”
Someone is injured or killed in an alcohol-related crash about every three hours, in Wisconsin. Statistics show that 167 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2020, which made up more than one-quarter of all traffic fatalities in the state.
Drugged driving is also a significant concern. Last year, 80 people died in drug-involved crashes, up from 59 deaths in 2019.
The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign aims to eliminate that risk on the roads, but it’s not just about stopping, citing or arresting drivers. The campaign is focused on saving lives.
Wisconsin officers use special training to combat impaired driving, year-round. The state has among the most trained Drug Recognition Experts in the nation. Plus, there are 25 multi-jurisdictional OWI task forces operating across Wisconsin.
Law enforcement officers need help from everyone to keep impaired drivers off the roads, which can be accomplished by the following:
• If planning to celebrate, identify a sober designated driver or find a safe alternative way home. Never allow someone who is impaired to get behind the wheel.
• If a driver is suspected of impairment, call 911. Provide as much detail as possible on the driver, vehicle and location.
• Download the free Drive Sober mobile app from the Wis-DOT website. The app includes a find a ride feature to help locate mass transit and taxi or rideshare services.
• Some bars and restaurants have programs to provide patrons a safe ride home.
• Watch speed and eliminate distractions. Buckle up and put the phone down.
