Chattanooga Kicks Off Holiday Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign!
Brace Yourself for “Booze It and Lose It”!
Hey there, Chattanooga! As we dive into the festive season, our city is gearing up to keep our roadways safe with a brand new initiative. Get ready for the “Booze It and Lose It” campaign, which runs from December 13, 2024, to January 1, 2025. This campaign is all about increasing enforcement against impaired driving during the holidays—a time when many folks like to celebrate a bit too much.
Why the Campaign Matters
During this busy time of year, the last thing we want is to see our friends and family getting hurt. Did you know that impaired driving can lead to some serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities? It’s true, and that’s why the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) has teamed up with the Chattanooga Police Department. Together, they’re making it their mission to keep our streets safe with sobriety checkpoints and heightened visibility enforcement.
What to Expect
During the campaign, you can expect to see more police officers out there on the roads. They will be setting up sobriety checkpoints, so it might be wise to plan for an extra few minutes on your drive home after a holiday party. Remember, this isn’t just about being a buzzkill; it’s about keeping everyone safe!
The increased state and national messaging around this initiative aims to cut down on impaired-driving incidents significantly this holiday season. It’s part of a larger program known as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” mobilization. The goal? To prevent tragedies and encourage everyone to think twice before getting behind the wheel after having a drink.
The Price of Poor Choices
If you think it’s no big deal to drive after a couple of drinks, consider the consequences. In Tennessee, a DUI conviction for first-time offenders can hit hard in several ways. You might face huge fines, court costs, legal fees, and even the possibility of jail time. But that’s not all! You could also be mandated to undergo drug and alcohol treatment programs or have to install an ignition interlock device in your car—a gadget that makes it impossible to start your vehicle without a breath test.
Community Support
In case you’re wondering how the Chattanooga Police Department is able to ramp up its efforts, they’re receiving grant funding from THSO. This support is crucial for enhancing safety measures and taking a strong stand against drunk driving during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
Stay Safe and Celebrate Responsibly!
As we embrace all the holiday cheer, let’s make a pact, folks! Whether you’re planning on hitting the local holiday parties or cozying up at home, remember to have a safe way to get around. Designate a driver, use rideshare services, or simply stay where you are if you indulge a bit too much. The goal is to keep everyone safe and sound while celebrating this wonderful season.
In the end, we all want to enjoy the holidays with our loved ones. So let’s make sure that when it’s time to go home, we do so responsibly and safely. Happy holidays, Chattanooga, and remember—don’t drink and drive!
For More Information
If you’re curious about more details regarding the THSO or want to learn about additional safety tips, don’t hesitate to check out their official site at www.tntrafficsafety.org.
