WYOMING — As part of the “drive sober or get pulled over” campaign, additional law enforcement will patrol the roads from Dec. 31, through Jan. 3, 2022, with the specific purpose of detecting and apprehending impaired drivers.
WYDOT Law Enforcement Liaison, Pete Abrams, said there are 32 law enforcement agencies across the state, plus WHP, that participate in the program.
WHP has experienced 66 alcohol/drug-related fatalities so far this year in Wyoming.
“Impaired driving has a devastating impact on the quality of life for those in all communities. In 2019, there were 10,142 people killed nationwide in impaired driving crashes, accounting for nearly one-third of the yearly driving fatalities,” said Wyoming Highway Patrol Captain David Wagener.
“The tragedy of these deaths is felt year-round, but for many, most strongly during the holidays. The most tragic part of these deaths is that they were 100% preventable. Please do your part this holiday season to keep yourself and others protected by celebrating responsibly and planning ahead to get home unharmed as we want everyone to ring in the New Year safely.”
Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicated almost 29 people each day die in alcohol-impaired vehicle crashes. In Wyoming, a driver is considered impaired with a .08 percent or above blood-alcohol content. A driver deciding to drive impaired is not only risking their lives but the lives of everyone around them. The consequences for driving impaired include fines, legal fees, driver license revocation and even jail time.
“Let’s end 2021 and welcome 2022 on a good note and work together to ensure that no one dies on our roads or highways from this preventable crime,” said Kebin Haller, colonel and administrator of the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
Besides driving sober or having a designated driver, motorists can take additional steps to stay safe when traveling. They can:
- Call a taxi or ride service if they’ve been drinking
- Ensure all guests at their party leave with a sober driver
- Always wear their seat belts to protect themselves against impaired drivers
Driving sober is not only important during the holidays but throughout the year. Motorists can also stay safe and get the latest road and travel conditions by downloading WYDOT’s 511 app for their smartphones at wyoroad.info.
