The holidays mean parties with friends, but they also could mean a stop at the local jail or worse. To help deter impaired driving over the upcoming holiday period, state and local law enforcement throughout Wisconsin will patrol in greater numbers and for additional hours as part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign that has begun and continues through New Year’s Day.
David Pabst, Director of the DOT's Bureau of Transporation Safety says you will likely see more law enforcement on the highways...
"...law enforcement is going to be out and about during this holiday period in greater numbers and for additional hours trying to get people to comply with the impaired driving laws. There's a lot of partying going on and celebrations and we just want to make sure people make good choices and to be driving sober...."
David Pabst says planning your night out is important....
"...it's really important that you designate before you celebrate, but it's just so important to plan ahead. If you are enjoying yourself, make sure you have a designated driver or have make arrangements to get a safe ride home...."
Along with statewide campaigns like “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” the DOT uses federal funds to help coordinate 24 task forces across Wisconsin that combine multiple law enforcement agencies to conduct high-visibility OWI enforcement efforts.
They also offers a free Drive Sober mobile app which includes a blood alcohol estimator, designated driver selector, and find-a-ride feature that uses a smart phone’s GPS to locate alternative transportation. Since its launch in February 2013, over 73,760 people have accessed the app
