Police warn “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign underway.

Local and state police departments are going to be cracking down on those driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, with a “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign going on through Labor Day weekend.

North Vernon and Seymour police departments are taking part in the campaign which will include overtime patrols targeting those driving under the influence.

The extra high-visibility enforcement is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through grants administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute.

Data from the administration shows that an estimated 9,560 people died in motor vehicle crashes in the first quarter of 2022 – a seven percent increase from the previous year and the highest number of deaths in 20 years.

In Indiana, traffic fatalities increased by more than 20 percent during that time compared to 2021. If the pace continues, 2022 could be the third straight year with record high fatalities.

With officers showing zero tolerance throughout the campaign, police recommend celebrating the end of summer responsibly by having a safety plan in place. Never drive impaired or let friends get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking.