State steps up enforcement against impaired driving

CONCORD — State, county and local law enforcement agencies are teaming up to reduce incidents of impaired driving through the end-of-year holidays, according to the New Hampshire Department of Safety.

The “drive sober or get pulled over” holiday campaign began Dec. 11 and will run through Jan. 1, 2025. During the high-visibility enforcement initiative, drivers should anticipate an increased number of patrols of roadways and as officers seek to detect and deter impaired drivers.

December is historically a dangerous period for Granite Staters on the road. According to the NH Department of Safety’s Division of Motor Vehicles, 45 people were killed in crashes in December between 2018 and 2022. Over the same period, 57 crashes involved drivers who were suspected of being under the influence, had been drinking, using illegal drugs or had taken medication. In 2022, 146 people were killed in crashes on New Hampshire roads, 73% of which were drug- or alcohol-related. 

“Troopers have zero-tolerance for drivers operating under the influence and will be out in full force,” said Lt. Christopher Storm of NH State Police, which is collaborating with the state Office of Highway Safety on the upcoming enforcement campaign. “We will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute individuals who choose to endanger themselves and others by getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. Driving while impaired is not only illegal, but also reckless and irresponsible. It puts innocent lives at risk and has devastating consequences to all involved. We encourage everyone to designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service or call a taxi."

Anyone who sees a potential drunk driver on the road is encouraged to contact 911 immediately. The state Office of Highway Safety acknowledged all agencies and their members who are participating in this effort to protect lives and remove impaired drivers from Granite State roads. The initiative is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through grants issued by the Office of Highway Safety.