You are never supposed to drive drunk.
Police are always watching for impaired drivers.
But from Aug. 19 through Sept. 7, they will be watching even closer.
The Scioto County Sheriff’s Office is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other law enforcement agencies for the annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign ahead of the Labor Day holiday.
The goal is simple: stop drunk drivers before they hurt or kill someone.
Labor Day weekend is one of those holidays where cookouts, parties, boating, camping, and last-minute summer trips can all turn into dangerous roads if people drink and then get behind the wheel.
The numbers show why police take it seriously.
During the 2024 Labor Day holiday period, 505 people died in traffic crashes nationwide. Of those deaths, 170 involved a drunk driver.
That is about one-third of all crash deaths during the holiday period.
The numbers are even more alarming for younger drivers. Among drivers ages 18 to 34 who were killed in crashes over the 2024 Labor Day holiday, 40% were drunk, with blood alcohol levels of .08 or higher.
Sheriff David Thoroughman said the campaign is about preventing tragedy, not ruining anyone’s holiday.
“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,” Thoroughman said.
He said Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over is meant to remind drivers that drunk driving is illegal and deadly.
“Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers,” Thoroughman said. “Help us protect the community and put an end to this dangerous behavior.”
The advice is not complicated.
If you plan to drink, plan your ride before the drinking starts. Pick a designated driver, call a taxi, use a rideshare, or make arrangements to stay where you are.
Do not wait until you are already impaired to figure out how you are getting home. Alcohol affects judgment, and that is exactly when people start making excuses for bad decisions.
If a friend has been drinking and reaches for the keys, step in. Take the keys, call a ride, or get help from someone sober.
And if you see a suspected drunk driver on the road, call law enforcement.
The message from police is clear: enjoy the holiday, but do not gamble with someone else’s life.
Drive sober, or get pulled over.