NHTSA: Urgent Warning for Labor Day DUI Risk This Year

NHTSA Launches Labor Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Campaign

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign. Millions of Americans are expected to be on the road for the Labor Day holiday. The agency is warning drivers about the dangers and consequences of impaired driving.

NHTSA Chief Counsel Peter Simshauser introduced the campaign at the Netherlands Carillon in Arlington, Virginia. He was joined by Frank Lands, Deputy Director for Operations at the National Park Service; Stacey Stewart, CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving; and Rose Kehoe and Kris Meade, parents of a teenager killed by an impaired driver.

“Impaired driving is totally preventable, yet more than 12,000 people are killed each year because someone selfishly decides to drive under the influence,” Simshauser said. “Make the responsible choice ahead of Labor Day weekend and plan ahead—arrange for a sober ride home. Yours is not the only life at stake.”

NHTSA Data Shows Ongoing Threat from Impaired Driving

According to NHTSA, nearly one-third of all U.S. traffic crash deaths involve drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. Men ages 18–34 are most likely to drive while impaired. Nighttime crashes remain especially deadly. Alcohol-impaired fatal crash rates at night are three times higher than during the day.

Data also highlights risks for motorcyclists. In 2023, 41% of riders who died in single-motorcycle crashes were alcohol impaired.

NHTSA Campaign Addresses Alcohol and Drug Impairment

The campaign includes more than one message to reach different groups of drivers:

• Drive High, Get a DUI – Cannabis and other drugs slow reaction time, impair judgment, and reduce coordination. Using these substances before driving can lead to impaired-driving charges.
• Ride Sober or Get Pulled Over – Motorcyclists are urged to avoid riding after drinking or using drugs.

Heightened Law Enforcement

From August 15 through September 1, law enforcement across the country will step up patrols. Officers will focus on identifying and stopping impaired drivers. This high-visibility enforcement is a central part of the NHTSA Labor Day campaign.

The effort is also backed by a nationwide media push. NHTSA is running ads on TV, radio, and digital platforms, including social media channels.

Safety Message for the Public

NHTSA is urging everyone to plan ahead before traveling. Never drive after drinking or using any impairing substance. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, or use a ride-hailing service.

NHTSA also reminds the public to call 911 if they see a driver who appears impaired.

More details and safety resources are available on the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over webpage.

RELATED: Non-Domiciled CDL Lawsuit Continues After New FMCSA Rule, Non-Domiciled CDLs: New Lawsuit Fights DMV Actions in CA, Human Trafficking: Surprising Tips How To Spot and Stop It