Cops Crack Down on Drunk Holiday Driving

Woburn Police is cracking down on impaired driving as part of a national campaign stretching into New Year's Day.

Woburn, along with 48 other Massachusetts departments, will conduct an intensive crackdown on drunk driving between now and Jan. 1 as part of the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign.

Impaired driving includes operating a vehicle "under the influence of intoxicating liquor, or of marijuana, narcotic drugs, depressants or stimulant substances," according to Mass General Law.

“We know that the holiday season can be one of the deadliest and most dangerous times on America’s roadways due to an increase in drunk driving,” said Lt. Chris Wackrow. “Don’t let your 2012 end in an arrest or worse, death.  It’s not worth the risk.”

According to authorities, there were 314 fatalities in traffic accidents in 2010—39 percent of those involved a driver with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher. 

“Lots of folks will be out during this busy holiday season, enjoying themselves and the holiday festivities.  We want everyone to be safe on our roadways,” said Lt. Wackrow. “That’s why we will step up enforcement to catch and arrest impaired drivers.  If you are caught operating under the influence, you will be arrested. No warnings. No excuses.”

According to Lt. Wackrow, a first offense can cost the driver at least $5,000 in associated costs, including insurance rates. The Registry of Motor Vehicles reports that impaired-driving violators often see jail time, lose their driver's licenses, or are forced to use "ignition interlocks."

Woburn Police: Tips for a Safe Holiday

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home
• If you’ve been drinking, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement;
• And remember, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely.

Woburn Police's Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign will run until New Year's Day (Jan. 1). Woburn's participation in the national campaign is funded through a federal grant from the Executive Officer of Public Safety and Security's Highway Safety Division.

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