ATU DPS Takes Part in Labor Day Campaign

State and local law enforcement agencies will work overtime during the holiday weekend to identify and arrest drunk drivers on Arkansas streets and highways.

The heightened enforcement campaign “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” goes through Sept. 3.

Increased saturation patrols will be part of the initiative designed to keep Arkansas roadways safe during the Labor Day weekend. The intensified enforcement effort directed toward drunk drivers underscores the severity of the problem, both locally and across the nation.

During the calendar year 2014, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded 9,967 deaths in motor vehicle crashes involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Arkansas recorded 135 deaths as a result of alcohol-related crashes during the same reporting period.

Arkansas law enforcement agencies are teamed-up with police officers nationally to establish zero tolerance for drunk drivers and encourage all drivers to be safe and sober.

ATU Department of Public Safety would like to remind individuals to follow these tips:

  • If you plan on drinking, do not drive. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver before you get in the vehicle. Even one drink can impair your judgment and increase the risk of getting arrested for driving while intoxicated, or worse, risk injury or death to someone in a crash.
  • If you’re impaired, use a taxi, or call a sober friend or family member.
  • Promptly report drunk drivers to law enforcement.
  • Always wear your seat belt or use protective equipment while on a motorcycle. These items are your best defense against an impaired driver.

Learn more about Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.