Every 40 minutes, an American is killed in an alcohol-related car crash. Last year, over one million people across the nation were injured in alcohol related incidences.
With that said, New York State will take part of the nationwide 18-day crackdown on DWI’s in a campaign known as “Over the Limit – Under Arrest.” The crackdown started August 20 and will end on Labor Day, September 6.
“Those convicted of a misdemeanor or felony drunk driving charge – even if they are a first-time offender – will be required to install an ignition interlock device at their own expense in any vehicle they operate,” said Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner David J. Swarts. This stems from the August 15 signing of Leandra’s Law that is now in effect.
John F. Sullivan, president of the New York State STOP-DWI Association, Inc., said "The STOP-DWI Association, a network of offices in every county in the state, is pleased to support this nationwide DWI crackdown campaign. Highly visible enforcement efforts are an effective deterrent and a reminder that DWI is a priority among New York police agencies. Our goal is to make the Labor Day holiday period a safe and enjoyable one for all New Yorkers."
In 2008, more than 9,000 alcohol-related accidents took place costing the lives of nearly 400 New Yorkers. Although those numbers are lower than in years past, Peter R. Kehoe, executive director of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association, said, “Impaired driving continues to be a serious problem that negatively affects each and every one of us. One can’t watch the local news or pick up a paper and not see a story relating to drunk driving."
"Our deputies will be aggressively looking for all impaired drivers; make no mistake, if you are driving under the influence you will be arrested – no exceptions,” Kehoe said.
