Arkansas State Police initiates “Drive sober or face enforcement” campaign

It’s not easy to maintain a joyful holiday spirit when you find yourself facing the consequences of drunk driving.

Make sure to keep the holiday season joyful and safe by always obeying the law and choosing not to drive under the influence of alcohol.

During the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season, Arkansas law enforcement is joining forces with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to send a powerful message to drivers: think twice before getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

The Arkansas Highway Safety Office is urging drivers to keep this crucial message in mind: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

Beginning on December 13 and continuing until January 1, 2024, law enforcement officers will be actively engaged in a targeted campaign to crack down on impaired driving. This initiative aims to increase visibility and ensure that intoxicated drivers are removed from the roads. Moreover, it serves as a powerful reminder to the public about the grave risks associated with drunk driving.

Unfortunately, December tends to pose a higher risk for individuals traveling on the road.

Between December 2017 and December 2021, over 4,500 individuals lost their lives in accidents caused by drunk driving.

In the month of December 2021, a staggering 1,013 lives were lost due to crashes involving alcohol-impaired driving.

In December 2021, the impact of drunk driving was predominantly observed among male drivers. Statistics show that male drivers were involved in a significantly higher number of fatal crashes while under the influence of alcohol, with 721 cases compared to 208 cases involving female drivers. Furthermore, it was found that the age group of 21-34 years accounted for the highest percentage (27%) of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal traffic accidents during the same period.

The holiday season often leads to an increase in parties and celebrations, which unfortunately also means a rise in the number of drunk drivers on the road.

Arkansas law enforcement officers are urging drivers to remember the importance of making a plan before venturing out to any celebratory events.

Designated drivers play a crucial role in reducing instances of impaired driving and can potentially save lives.

As a designated driver, it is important to prioritize your hydration by drinking plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, it is crucial to actively encourage and support other designated drivers in their responsible actions.

As a designated driver, it can be challenging to stay sober behind the wheel. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that numerous individuals rely on you, including other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the roadways.

According to Colonel Mike Hagar, the Secretary of Arkansas Public Safety, drunk driving is not only dangerous but also illegal. As the holiday season approaches, it becomes even more crucial for state and local law enforcement to ensure the safety of highways and local streets. Drivers are faced with a critical decision – they can either follow the law and show respect to their fellow drivers by refraining from drunk driving, or they can choose to put others at risk, endanger their own lives, and face legal consequences. It is imperative that every driver makes a commitment to keeping the roads free of drunk drivers so that everyone can enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season.

Just remember that spending a few dollars on a safe ride home is a much more affordable option than dealing with the consequences of a DWI, which can end up costing you up to $10,000.

For more details on the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period, you can visit the official website at //www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving or get in touch with the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.

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