CTDOT Press Releases
08/25/2023
Stay Sober and Safe this Labor Day Holiday
CTDOT and State and Local police issue a reminder: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
As summer is winding down and with the Labor Day Holiday near, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and the U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are teaming up with the state and local law enforcement to remind the public about the dangers of drunk driving.
According to NHTSA, during the 2021 Labor Day holiday period, there were 531 crash fatalities nationwide. Of these 531 traffic crash fatalities, 41% (216) involved a drunk driver and more than 27% involved drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15 or higher.
According to the Connecticut Crash Data Repository, there were seven crash fatalities over the 2021 Labor Day Holiday in Connecticut, including three driving under the influence (DUI) crash fatalities. In Connecticut in 2021, the last year of verifiable data, preliminary data shows 112 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes, which accounted for 38% of all fatalities in the state.
According to NHTSA, even one drink before driving puts others at risk, as visual function is declined, coordination is reduced, and there is difficulty steering and operating a motor vehicle.
“No matter how you plan to celebrate the end of the summer season this year, make sure you protect yourself and others. Make a plan to designate a sober driver or use reliable public transit or a taxi or rideshare service before you head out to any celebration where you may be drinking,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we must do our part to prevent needless tragedies on Connecticut roadways.”
“None of us are ready for summer to end, but drinking and driving won’t make it last longer,” said Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. “In fact, it could ruin your life and someone else’s. Enjoy the long Labor Day weekend by celebrating responsibly, and if you choose to consume alcohol or cannabis, make sure you have a plan in place to get home safely. Call a rideshare service or taxi, take the train or other form of public transportation, or plan to have a designated driver. Doing the right thing could save a life.”
Instead of driving impaired, CTDOT offers these safe alternatives:
- Designate a sober driver. Plan for a sober ride home before you go out. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, don’t risk it.
- Use a rideshare program or public transportation. Plan ahead, download the apps, and be aware of the transit schedules in your area.
- Be a good friend. If you see someone about to get behind the wheel impaired, take their keys away and find them a safe way home. They may be mad at you, but they will thank you later.
- Call 911 to report drunk drivers. If someone witnesses a vehicle operating erratically, slow down and keep your distance from the vehicle. Call 911 to report the issue when it is safe to do so.
For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit nhsta.gov.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
CTDOTMedia@ct.gov
Twitter: @CTDOTOfficial
Facebook: Connecticut Department of Transportation
Share this information on: