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Through New Year's Day 2016, local and state law enforcement officers will be out and about -- on highways and local roads -- looking for drunk or impaired drivers.
They hope to make the roads safer and educate the public about the dangers of driving impaired.
Last year, 27% of all motor vehicle fatalities in New Jersey were alcohol-related, New Jersey State Police said.
Nationally, more than 10,000 people die each year in drunk driving crashes. The associated "societal cost" is estimated to be $37 billion annually.
Law enforcement agencies participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2015 Year End Holiday Crackdown" advise:
• Take mass transit, a cab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home;
• Spend the night where the activity or party is held;
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life --inaction could cost one;
• Always buckle-up -- every ride. It’s your best defense against an impaired driver;
• If you are intoxicated and walking, the safest way to get home is to take a cab or have a sober friend or family member drive or escort you to your doorstep;
• Be responsible: If someone you know is drinking, DON'T let that person get behind the wheel.
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