Indiana law enforcement teaming up to reduce impaired driving

INDIANAPOLIS - Drive sober or get pulled over. That's the warning state and local police agencies are issuing to drivers as Indiana gears up for its annual end-of-summer impaired driving enforcement campaign. Starting August 16 through September 2, officers across the state will be increasing patrols and sobriety checkpoints to crack down on those driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The extra high-visibility enforcement is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) through grants administered by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI).

"Driving drunk or drug-impaired is a problem for everyone," said James Bryan, ICJI's Traffic Safety Director. "Making the choice to operate a vehicle while impaired is never the right option."

Alcohol-impaired driving continues to contribute to many deaths in Indiana. In 2023, around 20% of all traffic fatalities in Indiana involved alcohol impairment. Drug-impaired driving is another major contributor to deadly crashes. In 2023, nearly a quarter of all traffic fatalities involved drug impairment.

ICJI recommends celebrating the end of summer responsibly by having a safety plan in place. Even if you only have one drink, designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely. Never drive impaired or let friends get behind the wheel if they've been drinking.

To help people with their plans over the Labor Day weekend, ICJI is offering $10 off Uber and Lyft rides from August 30th through September 2nd. Up to 1,000 vouchers are available each day. Ride credits are available between 5 p.m. and 3 a.m. the following day and must originate in, or have a final destination of, Indianapolis or Fort Wayne.

To redeem a ride credit through the program, visit SoberRideIndiana.com. Then, click on "Redeem Ride Credits" and follow the instructions for the ridesharing service being used. Tips are not included in the discount, and users are responsible for any charges exceeding $10. Possession of the code does not guarantee the availability of the credit.

For more information on impaired driving, click here or visit www.nhtsa.gov.