Tuesday, October 8, 2024
The Portage County Sheriff’s Office is joining law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign from now through Labor Day, Sept. 2.
During the campaign, law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin will patrol in greater numbers, for longer hours, watching for impaired drivers.
Last year in Wisconsin, there were 5,976 alcohol-related crashes that resulted in 159 deaths (approximately one-quarter of all traffic fatalities).
This campaign is not about stopping and arresting motorists. It’s about saving lives and preventing needless tragedies during the holiday season, according to law enforcement.
To help combat impaired driving, Wisconsin has:
• 7,579 police officers trained in Advance Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) to help detect impaired drivers and remove them from our highways.
• 390 highly-trained drug recognition experts.
• 30 multi-jurisdictional high-visibility enforcement task forces.
Those who plan to celebrate should identify a sober designated driver or find a safe alternative for getting home.
Never allow someone to get behind the wheel impaired.
Anyone who encounters a suspected impaired driver should call 911 and provide as much detail as possible on the driver, vehicle, and location.
During the Drive Sober campaign and throughout the year, law enforcement’s goal is to help ensure all travelers reach their destinations safely.
