Full Notification

For Immediate Release                                            12/15/2021                                              
 Don’t Let Drunk, or “High,” Drive: Celebrate the Holiday Season Responsibly
National “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Enforcement Campaign Begins Dec. 15
 
Santa Maria Calif. – This holiday season, the Santa Maria Police Department reminds the public to celebrate the holiday season responsibly by not driving under the influence.
 
The Santa Maria Police Department is committed to keeping our community safe and encourages everyone to stay in for the night or use a designated sober driver if you have alcohol, marijuana, prescription, or over-the-counter drugs that may impair.
 
From Dec. 15 through New Year’s Day, the Santa Maria Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The extra enforcement effort is part of a national campaign, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, with the goal of stopping suspected impaired drivers who put others on the road at risk.
 
“When it comes to consuming drugs and/or alcohol and driving, there is a right and wrong choice,” Sergeant Mike McGehee said. “Make the right choice by not driving impaired so everyone is able to enjoy the holidays.”
 
Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Do your research and understand how certain drugs may affect your driving ability.
 
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Prepared by:  Sergeant Mike McGehee