As Labor Day weekend nears, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and local law enforcement agencies, is increasing efforts to prevent impaired driving. The statewide campaign, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, will run through September 1 and feature heightened police presence on Connecticut roads.
The initiative aims to reduce incidents of drunk driving during a period when travel and social gatherings are common. According to NHTSA data, 511 people died in traffic crashes nationwide over the 2023 Labor Day weekend. Of those fatalities, 185 involved at least one driver with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher. Among drivers aged 18–34 who were killed that weekend, nearly half were alcohol-impaired.
Connecticut recorded 113 deaths from alcohol-impaired crashes in 2023, based on the most recent verified data.
“Every decision you make behind the wheel matters. I urge everyone to make safety a priority not only this Labor Day weekend, but every day out on the roads,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “If your plans include drinking, plan for a sober ride home. Use a designated driver, public transit, or a taxi or rideshare service. Let’s work together to prevent tragedies and keep Connecticut’s roads safe.”
“Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of summer and a time when drivers travel for final beach days and gatherings. It’s also a time for your Connecticut State Troopers to remind all drivers to designate a sober driver,” said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. “At this time of year, and always, we ask all motor vehicle operators to follow the rules of the road and make safety a priority whenever they’re driving.”
“Drinking alcohol or using cannabis and then getting behind the wheel is never safe or acceptable, not on Labor Day weekend, and not at any time,” said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. “Law enforcement across Connecticut will be actively working to identify and remove impaired drivers from the road.”
CTDOT advises motorists to designate sober drivers before going out, use taxis or rideshare services if needed, help friends avoid driving while impaired by taking their keys if necessary, and report erratic driving by calling 911 when it is safe.
Driving under the influence can result in fines, license suspension, or jail time under state law.
More information about impaired driving risks can be found at nhsta.gov.
