TZD Tuesday - Drive Sober; Extra Patrols Aug. 19-Sept. 5

Many of us are enjoying what’s left of warm summer days. Oftentimes, those celebrations involve having a few alcoholic drinks. Unfortunately, too many people get caught up in the fun and lose track of how much they’ve consumed, leading to a DWI arrest or worse – a life-changing crash.

To increase awareness and keep our roadways safe, more than 300 agencies statewide will participate in a DWI enforcement and education campaign in support of the Toward Zero Deaths traffic safety program. The campaign that kicks off Aug. 19 and runs through Sept. 5 is coordinated by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety with funding provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Make a Plan

• Designate a sober driver, use a safe, alternative transportation option, or stay at the location of the celebration.
• Speak up – Offer to be a designated driver or be available to pick up a loved one anytime, anywhere. If you see an impaired person about to get behind the wheel, get them a safe ride home.
• If you plan to drive, refrain from drugs, whether legally or illegally obtained. Impaired is impaired.
• If you don't know how a medication will affect your judgment, coordination, and reaction time, either have someone else drive or wait to take it until after you get home.
• Buckle up—the best defense against an impaired driver.

There is an easy way for us to help reduce traffic deaths on our roads – by encouraging our friends and family members to make safe choices behind the wheel. Together, we can drive Minnesota toward zero deaths!