(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is kicking off its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign on Friday.
Nearly 300 local law enforcement agencies around the state are partnering with the Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety to participate in the two-week additional DWI enforcement and awareness campaign.
As thousands of Minnesotans prepare for road trips over the Labor Day weekend, the state patrol is reminding them of the dangers and consequences of driving drunk or high. As of August 10th, more than 16,000 people have been arrested this year for driving while impaired in Minnesota, and 65 people have died in alcohol-related crashes. Drivers can lose their license for up to a year, pay thousands of dollars in fines and fees, and possibly go to jail.
OTS Director Mike Hanson says drivers have no excuse for getting behind the wheel impaired. “There are too many options. Take a cab, call a friend, use public transit or a ride-sharing option – anything but getting behind the wheel impaired.”
Law enforcement will work overtime shifts during the campaign to focus on stopping impaired drivers.
Public safety officials say drivers should make a plan to designate a sober driver, use a safe, alternative transportation option, or stay at the location of the celebration. They also encourage people to offer to be a designated driver or be available to pick up a loved one anytime, anywhere, and say that anyone who sees an impaired person about to get behind the wheel should get them a safe ride home.
If someone is planning to drive, law enforcement says to refrain from using alcohol or drugs. If a driver doesn’t yet know how a medication will affect their judgment, coordination and reaction time, they should have someone else drive or wait to take it until after they get home. Finally, they say to buckle up, as it’s the best defense against impaired drivers.
The enforcement runs through Labor Day, September 1st.
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