The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently launched the annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign in partnership with over 10,000 law enforcement agencies throughout the United States.
Labor Day is a high risk period for drunk driving. According to the NHTSA, during the weeks surrounding Labor Day in 2013 half of all of the fatalities that occurred at night involved intoxicated drivers. Additionally, 10,076 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver in the same year; in 68% of those accidents at least one driver had a BAC of .15 or higher.
The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign runs from August 21st through September 7. Law enforcement agencies will show zero tolerance for drivers caught with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) of .08 or higher.
The message is clear: don’t drink and drive. The number of drunk drivers on the road has decreased, but drivers are still at risk of encountering someone driving while intoxicated. The risk is increased between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
As a driver, be sure to wear your seat belt, stay alert, and be aware of other drivers. Do not drive if you have been drinking. If you do over-indulge, the NHTSA has released a SaferRide app that is available in the iTunes Store or on Google Play. The SaferRide app allows you to call a taxi or a friend while identifying your location for pick up.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of an auto accident caused by a drunk driver, get the justice you deserve. Auto accidents can lead to major medical expenses, lost wages, and chronic health issues. Attorney John Schuerman has more than forty years of experience with personal injury claims. He’ll fight aggressively for full compensation for you and your family. Home and hospital visits are available in addition to evening and weekend appointments. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.