“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Starts Today [AUDIO]

With the help of more than $750,000, law enforcement agencies across New Jersey are taking part in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign. It launches today and runs through Labor Day, September 3.

The state Division of Highway Traffic Safety estimates more than 400 agencies will be aggressively looking for impaired drivers on New Jersey roadways through saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints.

"It's a time of year that we need to remind the motoring public about the dangers of drinking and driving," says DHTS Acting Director Gary Poedubicky.

The number of drunk-driving fatalities in New Jersey has been falling, but traffic safety officials claim the state's numbers are still too high. Nationwide, nearly a third of fatalities in motor vehicle crashes involve a driver with a Blood Alcohol Concentration above the legal limit, according to the latest data.

Poedubicky says, "All too often, innocent, law-abiding people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of loved ones due to this careless disregard for human life."

During the crackdown, police will be especially vigilant at night and over the weekend, which are considered high-risk times for alcohol-impaired crashes.

"Our message in this campaign is very clear; you will be arrested, and there will be no exceptions," Poedubicky tells motorists.

Last year's crackdown resulted in 1,437 DWI arrests statewide. Law enforcement also issued more than 13,000 citations for speeding, seatbelt violations, driving with a suspended license and reckless driving.

Stepped-up patrols in 172 participating agencies will be assisted by a $4,400 grant from the Division and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Other departments are expected to participate without the financial assistance.