Medford Police participating in “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign

Medford Township Police Department will be cracking down on drunk drivers as part of the annual holiday season “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” statewide campaign.

Beginning Dec. 6 and running through Jan. 2, 2014, police officers will conduct saturation patrols looking for motorists who may be driving while intoxicated.

A concentrated national effort, the campaign helps to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving through high-visibility enforcement and public education tools.

“This is a critical traffic safety program that will help keep township roadways safe during the holiday season,” Chief Richard Meder said. “This initiative will educate the motoring public as to the consequences of choosing to drink and drive.”

Last year in New Jersey, 19 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities were alcohol-related. Nationally, during the combined months of December in 2007–2011, there were 4,169 people killed in drunk driving crashes.

Law enforcement agencies participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Holiday Statewide Crackdown offer the following advice.

• Take mass transit, a taxicab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
• Spend the night where the activity is held.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life, and inaction could cost a life.
• Always buckle-up, every ride. It’s your best defense against an impaired driver.
• If you are intoxicated and traveling on foot, the safest way to get home is to take a cab or have a sober friend or family member drive or escort you to your doorstep.
• Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel.