INDIANA — The Indiana State Police (ISP), including troopers from the Bloomington and Jasper Posts, are stepping up patrols to combat impaired driving as part of a national safety campaign leading up to Labor Day.
From August 16 through August 30, officers will be on high alert for impaired drivers. They will increase patrols and set up sobriety checkpoints as part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, a nationwide initiative led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in partnership with the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI).
“Our top priority is keeping our roads and our community safe,” said Sergeant John Davis. “The ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign is an awareness effort to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and it kills. Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers: Help us protect the community and put an end to this dangerous behavior.”
According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), nearly 14% of all traffic fatalities in Indiana in 2024 involved alcohol, while more than 35% involved drug impairment.
“If you are impaired, whether from alcohol, drugs, or even medication, you should not be behind the wheel,” said Douglas Huntsinger, executive director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. “As we head into the final stretch of summer, we’re urging Hoosiers to make the responsible choice and plan for a safe, sober ride.”
Authorities are urging drivers to plan their transportation before consuming alcohol. This includes securing a designated sober driver or using a taxi or rideshare service. They also remind passengers and friends to be proactive in preventing impaired driving, such as taking keys from someone who has been drinking and helping them find a safe ride home.
The public is encouraged to report suspected drunk drivers by safely pulling over and contacting local law enforcement.
For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit the NHTSA’s website at www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
