The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will participate in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign, which runs from December 12 through New Year’s Day. The initiative aims to reduce impaired driving during the holiday season, a period historically associated with an increase in alcohol-related traffic fatalities.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,038 people died in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes across the United States in December 2023. In response to these figures, additional officers will be on patrol throughout Riverside County looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Sergeant Evan Bechtold stated, “We want to make sure everyone gets home safely so that they can celebrate the holiday season with their families and loved ones. 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 Sheriff’s Office advises residents to plan ahead if they intend to drink by designating a sober driver, using public transit, or calling a taxi or rideshare service. They emphasize that impairment can result not just from alcohol but also from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products, and other substances. Drivers are urged not to operate vehicles after consuming any substance that could impair their abilities.
Anyone who observes someone driving while impaired is encouraged to call 9-1-1.
This enforcement program is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Those interested in joining the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office can find more information at joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
