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As the holiday season approaches, Virginia is stepping up its commitment to road safety through the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, urging all drivers to plan ahead for a safe ride home. Governor Glenn Youngkin, alongside state law enforcement officials, is reminding Virginians that drunk driving is 100% preventable and that one simple decision to designate a driver or call for a ride can save lives. This initiative will run from December 11, 2024, through January 1, 2025, with 168 law enforcement agencies participating in this heightened enforcement period.
The Roanoke Star reported that during this time, officers will conduct over 760 saturation patrols and 82 sobriety checkpoints throughout the Commonwealth to ensure that those who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not behind the wheel. Governor Youngkin emphasized that this is not just about enforcing the law but also about fostering public education. "As every drunk driving fatality, injury, crash, and arrest is 100-percent preventable, Virginia’s ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ DUI enforcement and public education campaign is on a mission to keep the Commonwealth’s roads safe from drunk drivers this holiday season."
The consequences of impaired driving are devastating, especially during the holidays when traffic increases. Between Thanksgiving 2023 and New Year's Day 2024, Virginia experienced 466 injuries and 13 fatalities due to alcohol-related crashes, showing the immense danger of driving under the influence. While this was a slight improvement from the previous year's toll of 23 fatalities, these numbers remain too high. The message from Virginia’s leadership is clear: the safety of all road users is paramount, and planning for a safe ride home can prevent unnecessary tragedies.
Virginia Secretary of Transportation, W. Sheppard Miller III, shared that safety is the best gift people can give their families. He emphasized the importance of arranging a designated driver or using alternative transportation, stating, “One simple decision can save lives and prevent heartbreak.” With nearly a third of all U.S. traffic deaths occurring during the holiday season involving drunk drivers, Miller's words are a sobering reminder of the stakes involved.
In addition to the law enforcement presence, Virginia's public awareness campaign, “What’s the Damage?”, is working to change behaviors by showing the real consequences of drunk driving. Launched just last month, the campaign uses new TV and radio ads to remind Virginia motorists of the risks associated with impaired driving, from the legal and financial costs to the potential for fatal accidents. The campaign aims to reach drivers, particularly those in the 21-35 age range, who are statistically more likely to drive after drinking.
The "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign also aligns with Virginia’s participation in Operation CARE (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), a nationwide traffic safety program that focuses on reducing impaired driving, speeding, and failure to use seatbelts. From December 13, 2024, through January 1, 2025, Virginia State Police will be working around the clock as part of this national initiative to keep the state's roads safer during the holiday season.
The results of these initiatives will continue to impact Virginia’s roadways long after the holiday season ends. With the combined efforts of law enforcement, public education, and community participation, Virginia hopes to see even greater reductions in alcohol-related crashes in the coming years. The bottom line is clear: by making responsible choices and planning ahead, Virginians can enjoy their holidays while keeping themselves and others safe on the roads.
If you or your loved one are struggling with alcohol misuse, get the help you need before it’s too late. Reach out to Avenues Recovery to break free of your addiction and live a safe, sober life. Our professional and experienced staff have helped thousands of people reach sobriety, and they can help you too. Contact us today to begin treatment in a supportive and encouraging environment.