INDIANAPOLIS – “Drive sober or get pulled over.” That’s the warning coming from Indiana state, county, and local police during the end-of-summer impaired driving enforcement campaign. Through Labor Day, officers will be increasing patrols across the state designed to target those driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Alcohol-impaired traffic fatalities have increased over the past few years, as have other dangerous driving behaviors, fueling a nationwide surge in roadway deaths. Newly released data from NHTSA shows that an estimated 9,560 people died in motor vehicle crashes in the first quarter of 2022.
In Indiana, traffic fatalities have increased dramatically over the last three years. If the 2022 pace continues, it will be the third straight year with more deaths, following 897 in 2020 and 931 in 2021.
Those who drive impaired are risking their lives and the lives of others. They also face arrest, jail time, and substantial fines and attorney fees. The average drunk driving arrest costs up to $10,000.
