Motorists Advised to Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

JEFFERSON CITY, MO - A new impaired driving logo and slogan, "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," was launched today by the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety.

The strong enforcement message conveyed in the graphic, which includes the image of a stylized police officer, reinforces the importance of driving sober and the legal consequences of ignoring that advice. Missourians will hear and see the message during a holiday radio, digital and print campaign.

"During this season of celebrations, we remind drivers of the dangers of driving impaired," said Leanna Depue, chair of the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety. "It just isn't worth the risk to get behind the wheel after you've been drinking or are impaired."

"Our message is simple. No matter what you drive - a passenger car, pickup truck, sport utility vehicle or motorcycle - if we catch you driving impaired, we will arrest you," said Colonel Ronald Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. "Law enforcement agencies across the state will increase their efforts to enforce Missouri's driving while intoxicated laws."

Impaired driving contributes to nearly 30 percent of all Missouri traffic fatalities. In 2010, 217 people were killed and 897 were seriously injured in crashes involving an impaired driver.

"Impaired driving continues to be a heartbreaking problem in Missouri and around the country," said Depue. "Some contend that those who drive under the influence are simply hurting and killing themselves, but a substantial number of people killed or injured in these crashes are innocent victims."

The holidays can be an especially dangerous time on the road. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas last year, 69 people died in Missouri traffic crashes (20 were impaired driving related) and 4,602 were injured (with 324 related to impaired driving).

If your celebration includes alcohol or other intoxicants, make a plan that includes a designated driver, alternate transportation or a safe place to stay.       

"Having a plan before you go out can help keep you safe," said Depue. "Because law enforcement organizations plan statewide sobriety checkpoints and DWI saturation patrols Dec. 5-12, it might also keep you out of legal trouble."           

For more information, visit www.savemolives.com/impaired-driving.html.