Wisconsin State Patrol launches "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign

MADISON, Wis. -- As Labor Day weekend approaches, the Wisconsin State Patrol announced Friday troopers and inspectors will focus on preventing impaired driving as part of the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, starting Aug. 16.

The State Patrol said the special enforcement and education campaign unifies efforts from law enforcement agencies across the state to stop impaired driving now through Sept. 2. While the presence of officers on the road helps remind drivers of the risks of driving under the influence, motorists must rely on each other to keep the roads safe for everyone.

Over 7,500 law enforcement officers across the state are already trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE). The State Patrol is continuing its work to train all officers, inspectors and troopers statewide.

The State Patrol said over 7,500 law enforcement officers across the state are already trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement, along with 400 Drug Recognition Experts. DREs help identify the signs of drug-impaired driving and secure convictions to keep those motorists off the roads.

In addition to risking your life and others' lives, the State Patrol said driving impaired carries serious financial and legal consequences. Operating While Intoxicated convictions can cost around $10,000, including fines, court costs, attorney fees, lost time at work, higher insurance rates, car towing and repairs, and more. Driving under the influence of any substances can also cost you both your driver license and your vehicle.

The State Patrol encourages everyone to make responsible choices this holiday season to ensure celebrations stay safe:

• Select a sober designated driver ahead of time. If you’re feeling impaired, you are likely over the 0.08 Blood Alcohol Concentration limit and should not drive.
• Remember, you have options: take the bus, call a taxi, use a rideshare, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
• If you have a friend who is about to drive under the influence, take away their keys and get them home safely.
• If you suspect a driver is impaired, safely gather as much information as you can about the vehicle, driver and location. Then call 911.

​COPYRIGHT 2024 BY CHANNEL 3000. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.