News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Crossville Police Department will participate in the “Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over” campaign to minimize drunk-driving accidents over the upcoming Labor Day Weekend.
National statistics show in 2022, 39 percent of the crash fatalities that occurred during the Labor Day holiday involved a drunk driver. Crossville’s Captain Brian Eckelson says the city will have additional patrols out targeting drunk drivers over the week.
“We just want our community to know that our only, and first priority is to keep people safe,” Eckelson said. “Uh, we’re not doing it to try to get people in trouble, we’re trying to get people to stay safe. So they know they’re going to be out drinking, they know they need to have somebody drive for them.”
The campaign is high-visibility enforcement, designed to make enforcement efforts obvious to the public. Eckelson said if the weather permits, the city will possibly set up sobriety checkpoints.
Officials urge drinkers to be safe over the holidays and plan ahead if they intend to drink. Impairment clouds a person’s judgement so the best option is to secure plans before having a drink.
“A lot of it, I think has to do with the convenience of finding someone to drive for (them),” Eckelson said. “People like to get out and celebrate and they may not have established… a way to get home safely.”
The department will participate in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” through Monday, September 2. The campaign aims to educate people of the consequences of drunk-driving.
If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure all your guests have a sober ride home,” Eckelson said. “If you see an impaired driver, call 911. And always wear your seat belt as it’s your best defense against impaired drivers. The number one priority is to get home safe. Don’t endanger yourself, and don’t endanger other people.”
