Local law enforcement ask drivers to help protect Oklahoma roadways and put an end to drunk driving.
Oklahoma City, OK — From August 19 through September 7, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Oklahoma Highway Safety Office will work alongside the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and local law enforcement to deter impaired driving and prevent roadside tragedies during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The message is clear: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.
Over the 2024 Labor Day weekend, seven people were killed on Oklahoma roadways. Five of those were in alcohol/drug-related crashes. Always drive 100% sober. It is not worth the risk.
“We want our community members to understand that it’s our first priority to keep people safe, so we’re asking everyone to plan ahead if they know they’ll be out drinking,” said Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lieutenant Chris Arnall. “Drunk driving is illegal and it kills. Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers. Help us protect our community and put an end to this dangerous behavior.”
If a driver intends to drink during a Labor Day festivity, he or she should plan ahead for a safe ride home by securing a designated driver or calling a rideshare. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment and endangers themselves and others on the road.
If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact local law enforcement.
For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
About the OKLAHOMA HIGHWAY SAFETY OFFICE (OHSO): As a division of the Department of Public Safety, OHSO’s vision is to create and maintain an environment where Oklahoma roadways are safe for everyone. Through strategic partnerships with law enforcement and nonprofits across the state, OHSO develops and supports programs that enforce traffic laws, educate the public on traffic safety and provide varied and effective strategies to reduce fatalities, injuries and economic loss.
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