DRIVE SOBER

August 18th was the start of the National 2017 Labor Day "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" high-visibility enforcement campaign. This campaign will run from August 18 through September 3. The 2017 enforcement campaign includes the Labor Day holiday weekend, which is one of the deadliest times of the year for drunk-driving fatalities. With NHTSA’s (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) support, State and local law enforcement agencies across the Nation are stepping up enforcement to help put an end to drunk driving.

*Drive sober, and only sober. Legal age adults should celebrate responsibly and plan ahead by finding a safe way home every time – designate a driver or call a ride service.

*Observe and obey all speed limits. Speed limits may change through different types of roadways, so be sure to adjust speed accordingly. In Florida, the limit will never be over 70 mph.

*Buckle up. A seat belt is a vehicle’s most important safety feature. Florida law requires that all drivers, all front seat passengers and all passengers under the age of 18 wear seat belts or the appropriate child restraints. Seat belts save lives, so buckle up every trip, every time.

*Focus on driving. Texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the stereo – these are all examples of things that can take attention off the road. Motorists should always have their hands on the wheel, eyes on the road and mind on driving.

Michele Bell, PIO