The Crawford County Sheriff's Office and local law enforcement will partner with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign over the holiday weekend.
The goal is to deter impaired driving and prevent the tragedies seen in previous Fourth of July holidays from happening again.
Every year, the Fourth of July holiday stands out as one of the deadliest times on the nation's roads. From 2018 to 2022, there were 1,414 drivers killed in traffic crashes during the holiday. Thirty-nine percent (545) of those drivers were drunk. Of the 1,414 drivers killed, the 21-34 age group had the highest percent (50%) of drunk drivers.
"We want to make it clear that on this Fourth of July holiday, we will have a zero-tolerance policy against drinking and driving," Sheriff Scott Kent said in a news release. "There will be no leniency shown. We are well-trained to identify signs of drunk driving on the road. Driving under the influence is a violation of the law, and a reckless act that puts the lives of drivers, their passengers, and others on the road at extreme risk. We urge everyone to keep road safety in mind as they prepare for the celebrations. Make responsible choices to help us ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all."
Kent said drivers should plan ahead if they intend to drink. Don't wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.
If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive − take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact local law enforcement.
For more information on impaired driving, visit nhtsa.gov.
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