MHP Launches ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ Campaign Ahead of Labor Day
The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) has announced its participation in the nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, running August 15 through September 1. The initiative, in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, aims to reduce impaired driving and prevent the rise in traffic fatalities often seen over the Labor Day holiday.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 511 people were killed in traffic crashes nationwide during the 2023 Labor Day holiday period. Of those deaths, 36% involved drunk drivers, and nearly 70% of the impaired drivers killed had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 or higher—almost twice the legal limit. Young adults between the ages of 18 and 34 were most affected, with nearly half of fatalities in that age group involving alcohol impairment.
“Drunk driving puts lives at risk and will not be tolerated,” said Captain Jeff Rogers, Troop K Commander. “During this campaign, we will work with local law enforcement to identify and remove impaired drivers from our roads. Together, we can prevent needless tragedies.”
MHP is urging drivers to plan ahead if they intend to consume alcohol, suggesting they:
- Designate a sober driver before going out
- Use a taxi or rideshare service
- Stop friends from driving drunk by taking their keys and helping arrange safe transportation
- Report suspected drunk drivers immediately to law enforcement
Troopers will be out in full force throughout the enforcement period to deter and stop impaired driving.
