Dunn County Sheriff’s Office continues participation in Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign
The Dunn County Sheriff’s Office is joining law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin and the nation for the annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign which runs through Labor Day weekend. From August 16 through September 2, officers will work together to prevent tragedies caused by impaired driving through additional enforcement and education.
“Our focus is to protect people on the road from the dangers of impaired driving,” Captain Travis Mayer said. “We typically see an influx of travelers in the weeks leading up to Labor Day, and we want to ensure the roads are safe so travelers can get to their destination safely.”
Someone is injured or killed in an impaired driving crash every two hours in Wisconsin. Last year in Wisconsin, there were 5,976 alcohol-related crashes, including 159 deaths. Alcohol contributed to more than a quarter of all traffic fatalities.
Drug-impaired drivers are also putting people in danger on the roads. A driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle is compromised by drugs, including some prescription and over-the-counter medications. Last year, there were 1,725 drug-related crashes that caused 70 deaths.
Wisconsin law enforcement officers have special training to combat impaired driving:
7,579 police officers trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement to help detect and remove impaired drivers from the roads
390 highly trained Drug Recognition Experts - among the most in the nation
30 multi-jurisdictional high-visibility enforcement task forces operating throughout the year, across the state
Everyone should plan ahead for safe travel:
If you plan to celebrate, identify a sober designated driver, or find a safe alternative way home. Never allow someone who is impaired to get behind the wheel.
Protect yourself and your passengers every time you travel. Buckle up, phone down. Watch your speed and eliminate distractions.
If you suspect a driver is impaired, call 911. Provide as much detail as possible on the driver, vehicle and location.
Some bars and restaurants have programs to provide patrons a safe ride home. Use the safe ride program, public transportation or a rideshare service in your area.
In addition to the national campaign the Dunn County Sheriff’s Office is participating in a speed enforcement grant and a seatbelt grant that allow the Sheriff’s Office to put extra deputies out to work traffic enforcement to reduce speed in the area and increase seatbelt usage.
Media release.
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