From December 10 through January 1 the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, in coordination with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and law enforcement agencies across Maine, will intensify efforts to stop impaired driving and protect the traveling public.

This initiative supports the national winter holiday high-visibility enforcement campaign, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

As with other festive seasons, the winter holidays are a time when alcohol-impaired-driving crashes and fatalities increase. During the 2022-2023 holiday season, there were 7 fatal crashes involving alcohol impairment, which resulted in 11 fatalities, according to MBHS, in a news release.

“Driving impaired is illegal, dangerous, and never acceptable,” said Highway Safety Coordinator John Roma, in the release. “Law enforcement officers across Maine will be out in full force to stop impaired drivers and keep our roads safe. We urge everyone to make responsible choices and help protect themselves and others throughout the winter holiday season. Drunk driving crashes are preventable when road safety is a priority for all.”

The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety Director Lauren Stewart reminds drivers to plan ahead if they intend to consume impairing food or drink.

“If you feel different, you drive different,” said Stewart. "Do not wait until after consuming to figure out how to get home — impairment affects judgment and decision-making. Before heading out, secure a designated sober driver or arrange a taxi or rideshare."

"If you find yourself unable to drive, give your keys to a sober driver who can get you home safely," said MBHS. "If a friend has been drinking and plans to drive, step in — take their keys and help them arrange a sober ride. Anyone who sees a suspected impaired driver should contact local law enforcement immediately or dial 911."

The risks of impaired driving.