As Labor Day weekend approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and Connecticut’s state and local law enforcement are reminding everyone about the dangers of drunk driving. From now through September 1, motorists will see an increased police presence across the state as part of the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign.
The message is simple: if you’re drinking, don’t drive. Law enforcement is stepping up efforts to take impaired drivers off Connecticut roads before they cause a crash, or worse.
According to NHTSA, 511 people died in traffic crashes nationwide over the 2023 Labor Day weekend. Of those fatalities, 185 (36%) involved at least one alcohol-impaired driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Among drivers aged 18–34 who were killed in crashes that weekend, 45% were alcohol-impaired.
In Connecticut in 2023, the most recent year with verified data, 113 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes.
“Every decision you make behind the wheel matters. I urge everyone to make safety a priority not only this Labor Day weekend, but every day out on the roads,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “If your plans include drinking, plan for a sober ride home. Use a designated driver, public transit, or a taxi or rideshare service. Let’s work together to prevent tragedies and keep Connecticut’s roads safe."
“Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of summer and a time when drivers travel for final beach days and gatherings. It’s also a time for your Connecticut State Troopers to remind all drivers to designate a sober driver,” said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. “At this time of year, and always, we ask all motor vehicle operators to follow the rules of the road and make safety a priority whenever they’re driving.”
“Drinking alcohol or using cannabis and then getting behind the wheel is never safe or acceptable, not on Labor Day weekend, and not at any time,” said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. “Law enforcement across Connecticut will be actively working to identify and remove impaired drivers from the road.”
CTDOT encourages these safe alternatives:
- Designate a sober driver. Plan for a sober ride home before you go out. Even one alcoholic beverage can impair your ability to drive; don’t take the risk.
- Use a taxi, a rideshare program, or public transportation. Plan by downloading apps and checking local transit schedules.
- Be a good friend. If someone is about to drive impaired, take their keys and help them find a safe way home. They might be upset in the moment, but they’ll thank you later.
- Report impaired drivers. If you see someone driving erratically, slow down, keep your distance, and call 911 when it’s safe to do so.
This Labor Day holiday let’s work together to keep Connecticut’s roads safe. Driving under the influence isn’t just dangerous; it’s illegal and can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, or jail time.
For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit nhsta.gov.