EAST BRIDGEWATER — Chief Paul O’Brien announces the East Bridgewater Police Department will be participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign this month.
From Friday, Aug. 12 to Thursday, Sept. 15, East Bridgewater Police will be using grant funding from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Office of Grants and Research to increase the number of patrols and to remind drivers and passengers about the lifesaving benefits of wearing a seat belt. During this time, East Bridgewater Police will have several officers on the lookout for impaired and reckless drivers on the roads.
East Bridgewater Police will join other departments across the state and the State Police in the campaign. Police urge motorists who have been drinking or using marijuana or other drugs to plan ahead and designate a driver, use a ride-sharing service or take public transportation.
“Crashes involving impaired drivers are deplorable and can be easily prevented by choosing the right thing to do, which is not drinking and driving,” Chief O’Brien said. “We encourage all drivers to make good decisions and not get behind the wheel of a car if they have been drinking as that choice can help save lives. As always, we will be watching for anyone driving in an erratic manner or who may be impaired.”
Alcohol and drugs can reduce brain function, slow response time, reduce coordination ability, and impair vision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 32 people in the United States are killed each day in drunk-driving accidents. In 2020, more than 11,600 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths.
The community is reminded that it is illegal to drink and drive, especially if blood alcohol level is .08 or higher. Driving a vehicle while impaired is a dangerous crime that can result in fines, loss of license, and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately one in three traffic deaths in the U.S. involves an impaired driver with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher.
The East Bridgewater Police Department would like to share the following tips from the NHTSA:
- Plan your ride home before you start drinking.
- Designate a sober driver.
- Do not consume alcohol if you are under 21 years of age.
- If you are hosting a gathering where alcohol is being served, make sure all your guests have a sober ride home.
- Never get behind the wheel if you have been drinking.
- Do not let friends or family get behind the wheel if they have been drinking or if they are under the influence of drugs.
- If you see an impaired driver, call 911.
- Always wear your seat belt, as it is the best defense against impaired drivers.
The East Bridgewater Police Department encourages community members to remain vigilant on the road and report any instances of impaired driving.
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