SOMERVILLE, N.J. (Somerset County) — Law enforcement agencies will step up efforts to deter impaired driving ahead of Labor Day as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, according to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.
The campaign will run from Aug. 19 through Sept. 7, with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration working with local law enforcement agencies across the country to prevent impaired-driving crashes.
During the 2024 Labor Day holiday period, 505 people were killed in traffic crashes nationwide, according to NHTSA. Of those deaths, 170, or 34%, involved a drunk driver.
NHTSA data also showed that 77% of impaired drivers who were killed had a blood alcohol concentration of .15 or higher. Among drivers ages 18 to 34 who were killed in crashes during the holiday period, 40% had a BAC of .08 or higher.
“We want our community members to understand that our number one priority is keeping people safe. If you know you’ll be drinking, we’re asking you to plan ahead and arrange a safe ride home. Don’t put yourself or others at risk by getting behind the wheel while impaired,” said Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald.
Officials are urging anyone planning to drink alcohol or use other substances during Labor Day celebrations to arrange transportation before consuming them. Options include designating a sober driver or using a taxi or rideshare service.
Authorities said impairment can affect judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk to drivers and others on the road.
People who realize they cannot drive safely should give their keys to a sober driver, officials said. Friends are also encouraged to intervene if someone who has been drinking is considering driving and help that person arrange a safe ride home.
Motorists who encounter a suspected impaired driver on the road are encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
Additional information about impaired driving is available through NHTSA.
