12/16/2008

DRUNK DRIVING. OVER THE LIMIT. UNDER ARREST blitz from DECEMBER 13th THROUGH THE 31st.

Now that the holiday season is here American across the country are revving up for travel, and holiday activities.  For some however, the season won’t be free of cost or disaster - Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in December 2007, 992 people were killed in crashes that involved a driver or motorcycle rider (operator) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, which is above the legal limit in every state as well as the District of Columbia.

The human toll is only half the picture.  Drunk driving is illegal in every state and the District of Columbia.   If caught, violators are subjected to arrest and will spend their money on bail, court, lawyers and towing fees instead of buying holiday presents for loved ones.  That’s a miserable way to end the year.

To avoid spending the holidays in a jail cell, The Meridian Police Department recommends designating a sober driver and stopping friends from driving drunk as two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving.  Here are others:
· Plan ahead: Whenever you expect to drink, designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys;
· If you’re impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely;
· Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement;
· Wearing your seat belt or using protective gear on your motorcycle is your best defense against an impaired driver;

There is no excuse for impaired driving that will satisfy a police officer or a court. Do the right thing this holiday season and throughout the year.  The next time you decide to put your pedal to the metal, think first.  As the old cliché goes, the life you save just may be your own – Drunk Driving. Over the Limit.  Under Arrest

For more information, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.


Capt. Rick McCary
Meridian Police Department

Rick McCary
Administrative Captain
Meridian Police Department
2415 6th Street
Meridian, MS  39301
Office: (601) 484-6830 Fax: (601) 484-6832
Cell: (601) 479-5757

WE ARE A FORCE of ONE!