CONCORD, N.H. (WCAX) – You may want to think twice when getting behind the wheel after your next holiday party. The New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety on Wednesday kicked off its “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.
More than 100 law enforcement agencies across the state will take part in the enforcement campaign during the holiday season. Authorities say drivers will see increased patrols from state, county and local law enforcement.
Safety officials say during the months of December from 2018 to 2022, there were 57 crashes in which the driver was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs or medication. And in 2022, 73% of all fatal crashes in New Hampshire were alcohol- or drug-related.
New Hampshire state police say troopers will be out in full force and they will have zero tolerance for drivers under the influence.
“We will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute individuals who choose to endanger themselves and others by getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. Driving while impaired is not only illegal, but also reckless and irresponsible. It puts innocent lives at risk and has devastating consequences to all involved,” New Hampshire State Police Lt. Christopher Storm said in a statement.
State police recommend everyone who plans to drink have a designated driver or use a rideshare app, and they urge you to call 911 if you see a drunk driver.
The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign runs through Jan. 1.