The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is participating in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign, which begins on December 12. The campaign aims to address the dangers of impaired driving during the holiday season, a period historically marked by an increase in alcohol-related crashes.
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,038 people died in alcohol-impaired-driving incidents across the United States in December 2023. The department is urging residents to avoid driving under the influence and to make responsible choices when celebrating.
“We want to make sure everyone gets home safely so that they can celebrate the holiday season with their families and loved ones,” Sergeant Marcos Acosta said. “Not only is driving impaired illegal, but it is also dangerous and never acceptable. We are asking everyone to do their part to keep themselves and everyone on the roads safe.”
The department recommends that those planning to drink arrange for a sober driver, use public transportation, or call a taxi or rideshare service. It also reminds residents that impairment can result not only from alcohol but also from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products, and other substances. People taking medications with driving warnings should let someone else drive.
If anyone sees a person who appears to be driving while impaired, they are encouraged to call 9-1-1.
This enforcement effort is supported by funding from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For those interested in joining law enforcement efforts, information about careers with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is available at joinrso.org or by calling 1-888-Join-RSD.
