Morris County officials warn against drunk driving this Labor Day: “Drive sober or get pulled over

MORRIS COUNTY – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is partnering with local law enforcement agencies for the high-visibility “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign.

The goal is to prevent drunk driving and avoid a repeat of the tragedies of previous Labor Day weekends.

During Labor Day 2022, there were 490 traffic fatalities nationwide, 39% of which were due to drunk drivers and a quarter (25%) of which were due to drivers driving with a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit (0.15+ BAC).

Among drivers ages 18 to 34 who died in crashes during Labor Day 2022, 47% were drunk and had a blood alcohol content of .08 or more.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts you and everyone else on the road at risk. Even one drink can impair your ability to drive, and if you choose to drive anyway, the consequences can be deadly,” said Deputy Administrator Shulman. “That's why we remind everyone to avoid taking risks and always drive home safely, especially if you plan to celebrate this upcoming Labor Day weekend.”

Drivers should be mindful of their safety during Labor Day by planning if they plan to drink alcohol. They should not wait until after they have had a drink to plan how they will get home. Impairment clouds a person's judgment. Drivers should find a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.

If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that the driver can get them home safely. If a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive – take the keys away and help them drive home sober. If someone notices a drunk driver, call 911.

Click here for more information about driving under the influence of alcohol.