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New Jersey has launched its annual "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, aiming to reduce impaired driving during the holiday season. Running through January 1, the campaign involves increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints across the state. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
According to the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, the campaign's goal is to protect the public by cracking down on impaired drivers. "Driving drunk or high, especially during the busy holiday travel season, is selfish, dangerous, and illegal," said Eric Heitmann, Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety. The campaign is supported by grants from the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, which help fund overtime, increased patrols, and checkpoints.
Last year, the campaign resulted in 590 DUI arrests and thousands of summonses for speeding and seat belt violations. With 574 fatal crashes on New Jersey roadways last year, more than 31 percent involved impaired drivers. The campaign aims to reduce these numbers and ensure safer roads during the holidays.