Law enforcement agencies across Hunterdon and Somerset counties are increasing patrols this Independence Day holiday as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign aimed at preventing impaired driving crashes.
The high-visibility enforcement effort is being conducted in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and will focus on identifying and removing impaired drivers from the road during the busy holiday travel period.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11,904 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in 2024. During the 2024 Fourth of July holiday travel period — from 6 p.m. July 2 through 5:59 a.m. July 6 — 579 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes nationwide.
“During the July 4th holiday, we will be out on the roads looking for impaired drivers,” said Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald. “There will be zero-tolerance for driving while impaired. Everyone knows the law – that it is illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, yet some people continue to take the risk after a few too many. Our officers are trained to recognize the signs of impairment and will take action to keep our roadways safe. Impaired driving is a selfish and reckless decision that puts the driver, passengers, and everyone else on the road in danger.”
Officials are urging motorists who plan to drink or use impairing substances to arrange a safe ride home before heading out. Options include choosing a designated sober driver, calling a taxi or using a rideshare service.
Authorities also encourage the public to intervene if someone they know is about to drive while impaired by taking away the person’s keys and helping arrange a safe ride home.
Anyone who observes a suspected impaired driver is encouraged to call 911 immediately. Officials said reporting dangerous drivers can help prevent crashes and save lives.
More information about impaired driving is available at www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
