“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” – Zero Tolerance for Drunk Driving

Happy 4^th of July!

Thousands of American’s will be celebrating the holiday with trips to the lake, cookouts, family gatherings, fireworks displays and other events. Many of these celebrations will include drinking; and unfortunately, drinking and driving. A choice to drink and drive is irresponsible behavior and could lead to death. Drinking and driving is illegal in every state. Statistically, drunk driving is an epidemic. In 2015, more than 10,250 people were killed in alcohol related crashes. This accounts for almost a third of traffic fatalities throughout the U.S.

If you choose to drink and drive, be aware of the staggering consequences. Average cumulative expenses can go upwards of $10,000. This is a conservative estimate. Consider you may face jail time, vehicle towing and impoundment costs, attorney fees, court costs, fines and lost wages. Your insurance costs will go up substantially. And, if convicted, you will most likely lose your driver’s license.

State, county and city law enforcement agencies will be stepping-up patrols for the 4^th of July holiday. Sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols from unified state and local law enforcement will also be working together to keep our streets and highways safe

The Arkansas Highway Safety Office recommends a few ways to help keep you safe:

• It is never okay to drink and drive.
• Plan your way home before you start drinking.
• Designate a sober driver.
• Use public transportation.
• See a drunk driver? Call 911.
• If you see someone about to drive any type of vehicle, car, truck, boat, motorcycle, four-wheeler, etc., take away their keys! Help them find a safe way to their next destination.
• BUCKLE UP, ALWAYS! A seat belt is always your best defense against a drunk driver!!

Be aware this 4^th of July, Arkansas law enforcement officers statewide will reinforce their campaign of ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’. This campaign means ZERO TOLERANCE for drunk driving.

Source: https://asp.arkansas.gov/news-releases/detail/arkansas-law-enforcement-has-unified-message-for-july-4th-drivers-drive-sob