Labor Day remains as the last holiday to celebrate with friends and family, as summer approaches its end and the school year begins. It’s also one of the deadliest days of the yearfor car crashes and attendant fatalities, along with Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. That’s why the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) began its “Drive Sober or Be Pulled Over” campaign a few years ago.
As part of the Drive Sober or Be Pulled Over campaign, law enforcement agencies across the United States will be looking to arrest drunk drivers. If you drink and drive and are caught, you can expect up to $10,000 in fines, possible jail time, possible driver’s license suspension or revocation, higher automobile insurance costs and other expenses.
As part of this campaign, Dave Ross, Secretary of Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation (WisDOT) stated, “The goal of this federal, state and local initiative is to prevent needless tragedies along our roadways and help ensure that everyone has a safe, enjoyable holiday season. We appreciate all those who will be working over the holidays to serve and protect the public.”
Wisconsin’s alcohol-related accidents in 2017 resulted in 169 deaths and 3,000 injuries. Between 2016 and 2017 Wisconsin led the nation in ignition interlock sobriety failures, almost 85,000 times.
Why are there more car crashes on Labor Day and other holidays?
The reason for an increase of Labor Day car crashes is not difficult to understand.
· There are more people on the road. The American Automobile Association (AAA) notes that gas prices are again very reasonable, which encourages even more people to drive somewhere to celebrate.
· More drunk drivers are on the road. A festive weekend always seems to foster drinking. Over-drinking results all too many times in inebriated drivers getting behind the wheel.
How you can help prevent drunk driving accidents in Wisconsin
There are ways you can help prevent drunk driving accidents in Wisconsin. They include the following.
Choose a sober designated driver before you start drinking.
Take a taxi instead of your car if you are buzzed, or ask a sober friend to take you home.
Speak up and don’t let a drunk friend or family member drive you or anyone else anywhere.
Report impaired drivers to law enforcement or call 911.
Some taverns and restaurants have programs to provide patrons a safe ride home. Visit https://www.tlw.org and click on “SAFERIDE”.
Download the Zero in Wisconsin Drive Sober mobile app.
All of us at the Law Offices of DiRenzo & Bomier wish you a happy and safe Labor Day. Please, Drive Sober or Be Pulled Over.
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