News : Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

Last year, in the final four weeks of summer, 45 people died on roadways in Iowa; Nearly 30% of those fatalities were caused by impaired driving*. The Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is partnering with law enforcement statewide to support enforcement efforts aimed at decreasing impaired driving. From August 15-September 1, agencies are participating in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement project. During this time, the public will see an increased presence of officers working together to remove impaired drivers/motorcycle riders from the road.

"Impaired driving can take many forms, and our law enforcement officers and Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) are trained to identify all kinds of impairment. Whether it's alcohol or drugs, law enforcement can and will identify and stop impaired drivers when they see them," says DRE State Coordinator Todd Olmstead.

Making a plan for a sober ride can be a lifesaving decision. Designate a sober driver if you need a ride, or call a taxi/rideshare service. If available, use your community's sober ride program. If you see or suspect an impaired driver/rider on the road, contact local law enforcement.

GTSB works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa's roadways using federally funded grants.