TAMPA, Fla. – Local law enforcement agencies across the country are teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for a national impaired-driving enforcement campaign running from Aug. 19 through Sept. 7, 2026.
The annual effort, centered around the Labor Day holiday weekend, aims to reduce alcohol-related crashes and fatalities under the banner “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”
Agency data from the 2024 Labor Day holiday period—measured from 6 p.m. on Aug. 30 to 5:59 a.m. on Sept. 3—recorded 505 traffic deaths nationwide. Of those fatalities, 170, or 34%, involved a drunk driver.
Federal records show that 77% of the impaired drivers killed in crashes during that stretch had a blood alcohol concentration of .15 or higher, nearly double the legal limit in most states. The numbers were also elevated among younger motorists: 40% of drivers ages 18 to 34 killed in Labor Day crashes in 2024 were legally drunk, testing at a blood alcohol level of .08 or above.
“Driving under the influence is 100% preventable,” said Acting Tampa Police Chief Brett Owen. “Getting behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a reckless decision that can lead to irreversible consequences. This Labor Day Weekend, make the right choice. Make the choice that will help get you and everyone home safely.”
Safety officials advise anyone planning to consume alcohol during the holiday weekend to arrange transportation ahead of time rather than deciding after drinking has begun. Recommended options include designating a sober driver, booking a rideshare, or using a taxi service.
Officials also urge friends and family members to step in, take keys away from anyone who has had too much to drink, and arrange a safe route home. Members of the public who observe suspected impaired drivers on the road are advised to call local police immediately.
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