(This article is a press release from the office of the Baxter County Sheriff.)
The Baxter County Sheriff’s Office will once again be participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” mobilization event for the upcoming Independence Day Holiday.
Every year, the Fourth of July holiday ranks as one of the deadliest periods on the nation’s roads. From 2019 to 2023, there were 2,653 traffic fatalities during the holiday period, 1,679 of whom were the driver. Thirty-eight percent (643) of those drivers were drunk. Of the 1,679 drivers killed, the 21-34 age group had the highest percentage (48%) of drunk drivers.
The Baxter County Sheriff’s Office has a zero-tolerance policy against drinking and driving. There will be no leniency shown. We are well-trained to identify signs of drunk driving on the road. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a violation of the law, and a reckless act that puts the lives of drivers, their passengers, and others on the road at extreme risk. We urge everyone to keep road safety in mind as they prepare for the celebrations. Make responsible choices to help us ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.
Drivers should be safe during this Independence Day holiday by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.
If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact the local law enforcement agency.
Baxter County Sheriff’s Office
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