KANSAS CITY, MO--(Marketwire - June 28, 2010) - Area law enforcement officers will be out in full force during the 4th of July holiday period, cracking down on impaired drivers with an aggressive Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest enforcement blitz.
"Driving while drunk isn't worth the tremendous risk. No matter your age, if you've had too much holiday spirit, you'd better find a safe and sober ride home or your chances of arrest are high," said Romell Cooks, Regional Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Region 7.
Recent statistics underscore the importance of the crackdown. In 2008 during the July 4th holiday period (6:00 PM THURSDAY JULY 3rd TO 5:59 AM MONDAY JULY 7th, 2008) there were a total of 491 traffic related fatalities. Out of that number, 43 percent involved a driver or motorcycle rider with a BAC of .08 or higher.
"Too many people still fail to understand that alcohol and driving don't mix. Impaired driving is no accident -- nor is it a victimless crime. It's vitally important that we bring this tragic situation to an end," said Ms. Cooks.
Impaired driving is one of America's deadliest problems. In 2008, 37,261 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. Out of that number 11,773 people were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.
Traffic safety officials remind motorists that much of the tragedy from drunk driving can be prevented with a few simple precautions before going out to celebrate:
- Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
- Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys;
- If you're impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;
- Use your community's Sober Ride program;
- If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don't hesitate to contact your local law enforcement;
- And remember, Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
Driving impaired is simply not worth the risk. The consequences are serious and real. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while impaired can be significant. Violators often face jail time, the loss of their driver's license, higher insurance rates, and dozens of other unanticipated expenses.
Don't let this Fourth of July blow up in your face. Remember, Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Designate your sober driver before the parties begin.
For more information, please visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.
Contact Information:
CONTACT:
Ginny Vineyard
(816) 456-5302