UNDATED, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan law enforcement officers, in partnership with the Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP), have announced the launch of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign beginning Wednesday, Dec. 18th.
The purpose of the campaign is to encourage safe, sober driving the holiday season. As a result, increased enforcement, along with statewide messages about the dangers of impaired driving, aim to drastically reduce traffic crashes, fatalities, and injuries on the roadways.
“The holidays should be an enjoyable time to spend with loved ones,” OHSP director Michael L. Prince said. “It’s important for people to drive sober this holiday season – and every day. If you’re impaired by any substance, you shouldn’t drive.”
According to data from OHSP, in 2018, one person was killed every 50 minutes by a drunk driver nationwide. In Michigan, of the 905 fatal crashes in 2018, 31.7 percent involved alcohol. During last year’s Christmas holiday, there were 13 fatal crashes, with nine crashes involving alcohol.
During this time period, officers will be on the look-out for motorists under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Impairment of any kind while driving is illegal.
If a person chooses to drive while impaired, they can be arrested for a DUI and may face jail time.
The news comes as Governor Whitmer has declared December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month in Michigan.
