The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is teaming up with state and local law enforcement agencies this holiday season to promote the dangers of impaired driving. From now through Jan. 1, 2025, drivers across the state will notice increased law enforcement presence aimed at preventing impaired driving and ensuring road safety.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that impaired driving is particularly dangerous during the holidays. Between 2018 and 2022, 4,759 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes nationwide during the December holiday period. In December 2022 alone, 1,062 lives were lost due to drunk driving.
In Connecticut, alcohol-impaired crashes were responsible for 127 fatalities in 2022, accounting for nearly 35% of all traffic deaths in the state. Nationally, one person dies every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash.
“Impaired driving is never acceptable. We need all motorists to commit to driving sober so senseless roadway deaths and injuries can be prevented,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Connecticut law enforcement will be getting dangerous drivers off the road so everyone can have a safe holiday season.”
Heightened Enforcement Efforts
State Police and local law enforcement agencies will be increasing patrols during the holiday season as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. This effort is aimed at removing dangerous drivers from Connecticut’s roads and making travel safer for everyone.
“Your Connecticut State Troopers will be out in full force this holiday season, dedicated to identifying and removing impaired drivers from the road. While residents celebrate with family and friends, Troopers will be working around the clock to ensure the safety of all travelers. Their vigilance is aimed at preventing crashes and saving lives, as impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of collisions and fatalities on our roads,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the State Police. “As always, we encourage drivers to partner with us in promoting safety: if you encounter an impaired or dangerous driver, please treat it as an emergency and call 911 immediately. Together, we can help protect our communities and ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and joyful holiday season.”
Safety Tips for Holiday Travelers
To ensure a safe holiday season, CTDOT offers the following tips for travelers:
Designate a Sober Driver: Before drinking, make sure you have a safe way to get home. Consider a ride share service, public transportation, or a designated driver.
Stay Alert on the Roads: If you see drivers who appear impaired, stay at a safe distance and report them to law enforcement by calling 911.
Intervene When Necessary: If you know someone who plans to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them find a safer way home.
Driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, prescription medication, or over-the-counter drugs is illegal and can lead to severe legal consequences. Offenders can face jail time, loss of driving privileges, and up to $10,000 in legal fees, fines, and other penalties.
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