Drive Sober Campaign December 18, 2020 - January 1, 2021

Sauk County Highway Safety Task Force

Date:  December 9, 2020

Sauk County Highway Safety Task Force to participate in ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ holiday campaign

The Sauk County Highway Safety Task Force is joining law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin during the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign from Friday, December 18 through New Year’s Day, January 1. During the national holiday campaign, law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin will patrol in greater numbers, for longer hours, watching for impaired drivers.

Last year in Wisconsin, there were 6,058 alcohol-related crashes that injured 2,918 people and resulted in 140 deaths (about one-quarter of all traffic fatalities).

While alcohol-impaired drivers remain a concern, a growing problem involves drug-impaired drivers - people whose ability to safely operate a motor vehicle is compromised by legal or illegal drugs including prescription and over-the-counter medications. Recent research by the National Highway Traffic Safety

To help combat impaired driving, Wisconsin has:

5,223 police officers trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) to help detect and remove impaired drivers from the roadways;

310 highly-trained Drug Recognition Experts - among the most in the nation;

23 multi-jurisdictional high-visibility enforcement task forces operating throughout the year, across the state.

Citizens can help in several ways:

If you plan to celebrate, identify a sober designated driver or find a safe alternative way home. Never allow someone to get behind the wheel impaired.

Protect yourself and your passengers every time you travel. Ensure everyone is buckled up. Watch your speed and eliminate distractions.

Download the free “Drive Sober” mobile app from the WisDOT website. The app includes a “find a ride” feature to help locate mass transit and taxi services;

Some taverns and restaurants have programs to provide patrons a safe ride home.

Call Bar Buddies for transportation in the following areas:

Baraboo (608) 370-4354

Reedsburg (608) 495-9202

Sauk Prairie (608) 370-4300

Spring Green (608) 588-5591

If you encounter a driver you suspect is impaired, call 911. Provide as much detail as possible on the driver, vehicle and location.