MONTICELLO- This Memorial Day weekend, law enforcement agencies throughout the state will be focusing enforcement on drunk and impaired drivers. The state’s Stop DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign begins on Friday and runs through Memorial Day. The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office is one of the participating agencies.
Sullivan County Undersheriff Eric Chaboty has a simple message: “Don’t drink and drive. We want you to have a good time but have a plan to get home. That’s the key. If you go somewhere and you’re drinking, make sure you have a ride.”
According to the State Police, more than more than 7,000 alcohol-related traffic crashes take place in the state each year. In 2022 alone, 335 deaths were a result of drunk driving.
Many bars and restaurants offer safe ride programs, and the state has a free app that can be downloaded called “Have Plan.” The app allows users to locate and call a taxi service, program a designated-driver list, and contains information on Blood Alcohol Content levels.
“Don’t risk it,” said Chaboty. “It’s it’s not worth your life or somebody else’s life or getting arrested. A typical arrest with all the lawyer fees and everything could run your $10,000.”
