PennDOT, Safety Partners Highlight the Importance of Sober Driving, Ahead of the Independence Day Holiday

Pittsburgh, PA - The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), PA DUI Association, South Hills DUI Task Force and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office held a media event urging the public to drive sober and safe throughout the Independence Day holiday period.

The safety partners gather at the Mt. Lebanon Recreational Center to discuss the dangers and consequences of getting behind the wheel impaired and to remind drivers, that plenty of families will be on the road this holiday. As the public celebrates the Independence Day holiday, it is integral to put safety first. If drinking becomes part of the celebration, all vehicle operators should plan ahead by assigning safe and sober driver beforehand.

Local and state law enforcement are collaborating during the enforcement period that will operate through July 4 to target impaired drivers. Those found operating a motor vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08 or over will be arrested.

PennDOT reminds motorists, alcohol consumption is not the only path leading to impairment. Recreational and prescription drug use can both result in a person becoming impaired. While under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a person's vision, judgment, reaction time, balance, and decision-making abilities are greatly affected. Impairment creates a dangerous situation for the person behind the wheel and others on the roadway.

The Mt. Lebanon Police also highlighted the efforts being conducted by the South Hills DUI Task Force, which they lead, and mentioned other task forces throughout the region will also have check points and roving patrols during the holiday period.

According to PennDOT data, there were 302 crashes statewide during the day and overnight of the 2023 Independence Day holiday, resulting in five fatalities. Of those crashes, 38 were alcohol-related and 10 were drug related.

Designated drivers are key lifesavers during times of celebration. Remember, a sober driver is someone who has not drank an alcoholic beverage or has part-taken in drug use; not the person who drank or used the least. Viable options include a trusted friend or family member, however utilizing a local ride-share application, or public transportation is also a great alternative.

Independence Day is one of the busiest travel times for drivers on the roadway. Practicing responsible driving is integral to reducing impaired driving crashes and fatalities, which are entirely preventable.

For more information on motorcycle safety, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.

PennDOT's media center offers social-media-sized graphics highlighting topics such as seat belts, impaired driving, and distracted driving for organizations, community groups, or others who share safety information with their stakeholders.

For regional updates, follow PennDOT on Twitter and join the Greater Pittsburgh Area PennDOT Facebook group.

Contact: Yasmeen Manyisha, [email protected]​

# # #