By Lea Kahn, Staff Writer
Lawrence Township police officers are cracking down on drunk drivers as part of the summer “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which began Aug. 17 and ends Sept. 3, according to police Lt. Thomas Ritter.
During that time, police will conduct sobriety checkpoints and roving patrols in their search for drivers who may be driving while intoxicated. Launched nationally in 1999, the campaign works to combat drunk driving during some of the busiest travel times of the year, including the Labor Day holiday.
The campaign is part of a concentrated national effort to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving, through high visibility enforcement and public education tools, including posters, banners and mobile video display signs.
”Many people believe that after a few drinks, they’re still safe to drive. Even one drink can impair your judgment and reaction time, putting not only yourself, but everyone on the road, in danger,” said Gary Poedubicky, acting director of the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety.
In 2010, alcohol-impaired fatalities accounted for 20 percent of New Jersey’s motor vehicle fatalities. That’s why the state Division of Highway Safety provides grants to local police departments throughout the state to run the two-week-long “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.
Lt. Ritter suggested that if one plans to drink, a designated driver someone who will not drink alcohol should be chosen to be the driver. If that option is not available, take mass transit, a taxi or ask a sober friend to drive one home. Spending the night where the activity is being held also is an option, he said.
”If you are intoxicated and traveling on foot, the safest way to get home is to take a cab or have a sober friend or family member drive you to your doorstep,” Lt. Ritter said.
On the road, report impaired drivers to the police, he said. That can be accomplished by dialing #77 on a cell phone. And always buckle up every ride regardless of where one is sitting in the car. It’s the best defense against an impaired driver, he said.
