On Independence Day, honor the ideals of America by making a conscious choice to drive sober or get a sober ride home. 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. 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 percentage (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,” said Independence County Sheriff Shawn Stephens. “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 remember road safety as they prepare for the celebrations. Make responsible choices to help us ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.”
Drivers should be safe during this Independence Day holiday by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. 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 at (870) 698-2436.
For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
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