Holiday Crackdown on Drunk Driving
South Hackensack Police Department
Extends Enforcement Crackdown Through Holiday Season
“Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest”
Chief Michael Frew today announced the extension of its enforcement crackdown through the holiday season for the Township of South Hackensack under the tagline: “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.” The intensified enforcement effort against drunk drivers underscores the severity of the problem both locally and across the nation.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in December 2007, 992 people were killed in crashes that involved a drunk driver or motorcycle rider (operator) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher – above the legal limit in every state as well as the District of Columbia.
“We will be out in force making sure drunk drivers are off the road,” said Chief Frew. “No amount of good cheer will be able to save you from the consequences of drunk driving. If we catch you, we will arrest you. No exceptions. No excuses.”
In 2007, 12,998 fatalities occurred in crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider (operator) who had a .08 or above Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) compared with 13,491 in 2006. Chief Frew emphasized the critical role law enforcement plays in helping solve this serious problem.
“Even though we’ve seen nationwide reductions in drunk driving deaths since 2007, our work is far from over” said Frew. “Too many people continue to suffer tragic injuries and the loss of a loved one as a result of this serious crime.”
The South Hackensack Police Department recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk as just two of several simple steps to avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving. Other important tips include:
- Plan ahead: Whenever you plan on consuming alcohol, designate your sober driver before going out and give that person your keys;
- If you’re impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely;
- Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement;
- Wearing your seat belt or using protective gear on your motorcycle is your best defense against an impaired driver;
“Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk. It is deadly serious and against the law. Violators will be spending their money on bail, court, lawyers and towing fees instead of buying holiday presents for loved ones. That’s not a great way to end the year.” said Frew.
Since 1981, every President of the United States has demonstrated a commitment to the prevention of impaired driving by proclaiming December as National Drunk & Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month. For more information, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.
The South Hackensack Police Department wishes everyone an enjoyable and safe holiday season. For additional holiday safety tips please visit the following: