Click here for the entire media release en español
VENTURA — Starting August 13 and running through September 1, the Ventura Police Department will participate in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
This high-visibility campaign focuses on stopping impaired drivers and preventing the types of deadly crashes often seen over Labor Day weekend. Additional officers will be on patrol looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
During the 2023 Labor Day weekend, 511 people were killed in crashes across the U.S. and 185 of those deaths involved drunk drivers. Among drivers ages 18 to 34, 45% of those killed in crashes were impaired, with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08 or higher.
“Keeping Ventura safe is our top priority,” said Traffic Sergeant, Mark Knackstedt “We’re asking everyone to plan ahead. If you’ve been drinking, don’t get behind the wheel. Call a rideshare, a taxi, or designate a sober driver. Drive sober or get pulled over.”
While drunk driving is a significant traffic safety problem, driving while impaired is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and cannabis products may also impair. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Learn more at www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving