The Hamilton County Traffic Safety Partnership has a very direct message for motorists: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Law enforcement agencies from across Indiana are participating in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign which is underway now and lasts through Labor Day. Although officers are constantly on watch for impaired drivers, during this campaign they will be working overtime to identify and apprehend those who disregard the message to drive sober.
In 2013, there were 114 fatal alcohol-impaired collisions in Indiana. This accounted for 16 percent of all fatal crashes in the state. Those most likely to be involved in an alcohol-related crash are between 18 and 44. Between 2012 and 2013 there was a 24 percent decrease in fatal collisions.
The decrease in the number of fatal crashes is a sign that drivers are responding to our message,” said Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Deputy Bryant Orem. “One life lost is too many, so we’ll continue to be out in force to catch those who make the unacceptable decision to drive while impaired.”
Orem added the community can help in getting dangerous drivers off the road. “If you see someone driving in a manner you suspect to be impaired, there is a high probability you are correct,” Orem said. “Call 9-1-1 immediately and report the location, description, and direction the vehicle is traveling. This will help officers observe the suspect and take necessary action to prevent a possible tragedy.”
The Sheriff’s Office will also be hosting a public education forum titled Heroin, Illegal Drugs, and Underage Drinking on August 28 at 7:00pm at the Hamilton County 4H Fairgrounds. Arrests for driving under the influence of drugs have doubled in the past year while underage drinking arrests in Hamilton County continue to be a problem. Concerned parents and residents are encouraged to attend the meeting for more information and resources to combat the situation.
The Hamilton County Traffic Safety Partnership (HCTSP) is a consortium of law enforcement agencies in Hamilton County working to increase the usage of seatbelts, to combat aggressive driving, and to decrease impaired driving with the overall goal of creating a safer Hamilton County. The HCTSP is comprised of the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department, Fishers Police Department, Carmel Police Department, Noblesville Police Department, and Westfield Police Department with the assistance of the Indiana State Police.
