Drunk Driving:  Over the Limit Under Arrest

The intensified enforcement effort against drunk drivers underscores the severity of the problem both locally and across the nation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in December 2007, 992 people were killed in crashes that involved a drunk driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher - above the legal limit in every state as well as the District of Columbia.

“We will be out in force making sure drunk drivers are off the road,” said Police Chief John Lowry.  “No amount of good cheer will be able to save a drunk driver from the consequences of this crime.  Drunk drivers will be arrested.”

Nationwide in 2007, 12,998 fatalities occurred in crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider who had a .08 or above BAC, compared with 13,491 in 2006.  Chief Lowry emphasized the critical role law enforcement plays in helping solve this serious problem. “Even though we’ve seen nationwide reductions in drunk driving deaths since 2007, our work is far from over. Too many people continue to suffer tragic injuries and the loss of a loved one as a result of this serious crime.”

Chief Lowry recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk as just two of several simple steps to avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving.  Other important tips include:

      Plan ahead:  Whenever you plan on consuming alcohol, designate your sober driver before going out and give that person your keys;

      If you’re impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely;

      Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement;

      Wearing your seat belt or using protective gear on your motorcycle is your best defense against an impaired driver.

“Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk.  It is deadly serious and against the law.  Violators will be spending their money on bail, court, lawyers, and towing fees instead of buying holiday presents for loved ones.  That’s not a great way to end the year,” said Chief Lowry.

Since 1981, every President of the United States has demonstrated a commitment to the prevention of impaired driving by proclaiming December as National Drunk & Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month.