Published on November 25, 2024
The Lincoln Police Department (LPD) announced today it will conduct specialized traffic enforcement focused on impaired drivers from December 1 through 31. The effort is part of the nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. LPD will assign additional officers to conduct high-visibility traffic enforcement to help deter impaired driving. Officers will take a zero-tolerance approach to drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while also watching for other traffic and safety violations. This enforcement campaign is made possible by a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office. In 2023, LPD issued 1,256 citations for driving under the influence – an increase of more than 14% compared to 2022. Statewide, alcohol-related crashes in Nebraska resulted in 76 fatalities and 602 injuries in 2020. Although complete data for 2023 is not yet available, preliminary reports show that alcohol was involved in 30% of all traffic fatalities, and nearly 62% of those fatalities involved individuals who were not wearing seat belts. LPD reminds residents that drunk driving is not acceptable behavior, especially when there are so many safe alternatives to get home safely. Use a designated driver, take a taxi, use a ride-share service, or don’t consume any amount of alcohol or drugs if you intend to or need to drive. This holiday season, we urge everyone to prioritize safety and responsibility. If you plan to drink, plan a safe way to get home. Help your friends and family make the smart choice to avoid driving after drinking, and don’t hesitate to call the police to report suspected impaired drivers. Remember, your loved ones are too important to take the risk of driving impaired. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe for everyone this holiday season.