Sobriety Checkpoints To Target Impaired Drivers In MoCo July 4 Weekend

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — With extra police officers manning sobriety checkpoints over the extended Fourth of July weekend, Montgomery County authorities urge residents to plan for a safe way to get home if they're drinking alcohol. One option is the SoberRide program in partnership with Lyft late Thursday into Friday morning.

"We want everyone to enjoy their Independence Day celebrations, but it’s crucial to do so responsibly," said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich in a news release. "The increased enforcement over the holiday weekend is about keeping our community safe. Please plan ahead, use the available resources like SoberRide and make sure you have a safe way to get home. Let's all do our part to prevent unnecessary tragedies on our roads."

Marked by celebrations and increased travel, the holiday weekend often comes with a surge in traffic crashes caused by excessive speed, impairment and distracted driving. The National Safety Council estimates 599 people may die on U.S. roads this Independence Day holiday.

"Our officers will be out in full force over the extended weekend," said Montgomery County Police Chief Marc Yamada. "We will be conducting sobriety checkpoints to remove impaired drivers. I urge anyone who is planning to celebrate with alcohol to plan ahead for a safe ride home."

Maryland drivers found guilty of driving under the influence can face loss of license, hefty fines and jail time.

Residents can find a list of local safe rides on the Vision Zero website aimed at preventing injuries and deaths on county roads.

The Washington Regional Alcohol Program’s SoberRide, in partnership with Lyft, will offer a limited number of codes for $15 off a Lyft from 4 p.m. Thursday, July 4, until 4 a.m. Friday, July 5. The first 1,500 passengers who enter a promo code that will be posted here on July 4 at 3 p.m. will receive free rides up to $15. Users must be 21 or older and are responsible for any costs above $15.

The service is valid in Lyft’s Washington, D.C. coverage area.

To request a SoberRide:

1. Go to SoberRide.com.
2. During an active campaign time, the website will list the promo code.
3. Open the Lyft App on your smartphone.
4. Tap the menu icon in the top left corner.
5. Tap 'Rewards' in the menu that appears.
6. Tap 'Enter promo code' to add the SoberRide® code from the website (remember to check spelling).
7. Tap 'Apply' to finish.