LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — State and local law enforcement agencies across Arkansas will increase impaired-driving enforcement beginning Friday, Aug. 21, and continuing through Labor Day.
The enforcement effort is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which runs through Monday, Sept. 7.
Officials said the campaign is intended to prevent impaired-driving crashes during one of the nation’s busiest travel periods.
During the 2024 Labor Day holiday period, 505 people were killed in traffic crashes nationwide, according to NHTSA. Of those deaths, 170 — or 34% — involved a drunken driver.
Among drivers ages 18 to 34 who died in crashes during that period, 40% had blood alcohol concentrations of 0.08 or higher.
“If your Labor Day plans include alcohol, make your transportation plans before you take your first drink,” Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar said. “Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or call someone you trust.”
Officials also urged people to prevent impaired friends from driving by taking their keys and helping them arrange a safe ride. Motorists who see a suspected impaired driver should maintain a safe distance and contact law enforcement when it is safe to do so.
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