The Wausau Police Department will join hundreds of law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin to combat drunken driving during the annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative from Aug. 18 to Sept. 4.
Last year in Wisconsin, alcohol-related crashes resulted in 143 deaths and over 2,900 injuries, according to a department news release.
Drivers impaired by alcohol, prescription medication, or other drugs endanger everyone. During the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over initiative, officers will patrol in greater numbers and for longer hours to help prevent impaired drivers from killing or injuring themselves or an innocent victim.
Rather than risk a drunken driving arrest or crash, police officials urge drivers to follow these common sense suggestions:
- Choose a sober designated driver before you start drinking.
- If you’re feeling buzzed, you likely are over the 0.08 BAC limit and should not drive.
- Take mass transit, a taxicab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
- The Zero In Wisconsin traffic safety program has a free “Drive Sober” mobile app that can be downloaded by visiting zeroinwisconsin.gov.
- Some taverns and restaurants have programs to provide patrons with a safe ride home. Visit www.tlw.org/ and click on Safe Ride.
- Report impaired drivers to law enforcement by calling 911. Provide as much detail as possible on the driver, vehicle, and location.
