Operation Zero Tolerance--Independence Day
It’s because of these statistics that GOHS is coordinating with more than 500 Georgia police departments, sheriff’s offices and state patrol posts to run concentrated patrols and set up sobriety checkpoints on our roadways and interstates this Summer holiday season. Safe drivers will go on their way, but impaired drivers will go to jail.
“So while you’re enjoying the bright, flashing lights of Fourth of July fireworks, think about the bright flashing lights you’ll see in your rear view mirror if you’re caught driving drunk,” said GOHS Director Harris Blackwood. “Drunk drivers won’t be able to go home after the July 4th fun. They’ll go directly to jail.”
“If you do plan to indulge this Fourth of July, there are so many easy ways to make sure you and those around you get home safe,” said GOHS Director Harris Blackwood. “Arrange for a sober driver BEFORE you start drinking, store taxi cab company numbers in your cell phone or take mass transit. If you’re the designated driver, it’s very simple…don’t drink! You can also help prevent tragedy by making sure you and your passengers are buckled up. Because the best defense against a drunk driver is always a fastened seatbelt.”
The Summer OZT campaign is also part of the GOHS 100 Days of Summer H.E.A.T. initiative that runs through the end of the Labor Day travel period in September. Traffic enforcement officers will be patrolling roadways all summer during Summer H.E.A.T. to raise driver awareness about the deadly consequences on speed, impaired driving, and the failure to use safety belts and child restraints.
“So remember, declare your independence from drunk driving on July Fourth,” said GOHS Director Harris Blackwood. “Know your limits, be responsible and be prepared to call 9-1-1 if you see an impaired driver endangering other lives on the road.”
Impaired driving is neither an accident nor a victimless crime. The message is simple. If you drive impaired in Georgia, you will go to jail. If you’re Over the Limit, you’ll be Under Arrest. For more information about Operation Zero Tolerance and the 100 Days of Summer H.E.A.T. campaign, visit the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety at www.gahighwaysafety.org.