The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will be joining law enforcement agencies to prevent “tragedies” across Wisconsin and the nation by participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” holiday enforcement campaign.
According to a news release, there will be more officers out patrolling to get impaired drivers off the roads during the annual campaign, which will be in effect beginning Friday, Dec. 16 through Sunday, Jan. 1, New Year’s Day.
“The campaign is not simply about stopping or arresting drivers. It is focused on saving lives. Someone is killed or injured in (an) impaired driving crash every two hours in Wisconsin. During the last holiday season, there were nearly 400 crashes that involved an impaired driver,” the release stated.
“We cannot do this alone. We ask everyone to protect themselves and their neighbors by always driving sober. If a friend is about to drink and drive, take the keys and help them get home safely. If you see a driver you suspect is under the influence, call 911,” Sheriff Paul Milbrath was quoted as saying in the release.
Alcohol and drugs can have a significant impact on a driver’s focus and ability to maintain control behind the wheel. Last year in Wisconsin, there were 6,368 alcohol-related crashes that killed 166 people. Alcohol contributed to more than a quarter of all traffic fatalities, the release noted.
According to the release, Wisconsin officers have special training to help combat impaired driving. The initiative includes:
• 6,382 police officers trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement to help detect and remove impaired drivers from the roads.
• 365 highly trained Drug Recognition Experts, among the most in the nation.
• 25 multi-jurisdictional high-visibility OWI (operating wile intoxicated) task forces operating around the state.
The release noted that “everyone in the community can help with this effort in several ways:”
• Those planning to celebrate are asked to identify a sober designated driver or find a safe ride home. Never allow someone who is impaired to get behind the wheel.
• Those who suspect a driver is impaired are asked to call 911, and provide as much detail as possible about the driver, vehicle, and location.
• Download the free Drive Sober mobile app from the WisDOT 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 with a safe ride home.
• Motorists are reminded to buckle-up and put their cell phones down, every trip, every time.
“The holidays are a special time of year for many. We want everyone to enjoy the season, but we need commitment from drivers. This enforcement campaign helps us get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and it takes lives. Help us put an end to these needless tragedies,” Milbrath said in the release.
File photo.
This post has already been read 998 times!
