Georgia Law Enforcement Crackdown on Impaired Driving Starts, Runs Through Labor Day Weekend

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – If you’re out for a drink between now and Labor Day Weekend, you better think twice before getting behind the wheel.

Georgia’s Governor’s Office of Highway Safety launched a zero tolerance campaign against impaired driving Friday as part of this year’s nationwide ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign.

Officers from all departments across the state will be stepping up patrols and roadblocks over the next few weeks to keep impaired drivers off the roads.

GOHS says on average, there is an alcohol-related death every 51 minutes in America.

“It doesn’t just affect the lives of the person that was killed and their families,” says assistant coordinator for the Middle Georgia Traffic Enforcement Network, Lt. Bryan Hunter.  “It affects our economy as well.  Insurance rates go up, hospital bills go up—dealing with the traumas.  It affects everybody, whether they’re directly involved or not.  It’s not just the death of the person.”

“I would advise people to adhere to the speed limits, says fatality investigator for the Macon Police Department, Inv. Samuel Riley.  “If you’re going to drink and then go to a party, be responsible.  Have a designated driver and wear your seatbelts while operating the motor vehicle.  If you have a child, please put them in the proper safety restraints.”

Remember the legal blood alcohol content in Georgia is .08.  Officers say if they catch you over that limit, you will go to jail—no exceptions.

For more information on the ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration online or for more information on Georgia’s efforts to stop impaired driving, visit gahighwaysafety.org.