Finish Summer Strong: Drive Sober this Labor Day Weekend

CTDOT and law enforcement remind drivers to Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

With Labor Day weekend approaching, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and Connecticut's state and local law enforcement agencies are stepping up efforts to keep impaired drivers off Connecticut roads. From August 19 through September 7, 2026, motorists can expect to see increased patrols as part of the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign.

Whether you're heading to a backyard barbecue, the beach, or a family gathering, plan ahead for a sober ride home. Never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or using any other substance that can impair your ability to drive.

"Labor Day weekend should be remembered for time spent with family and friends, not for a tragedy that could have been prevented," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "If your plans include drinking, arrange a sober ride before you leave home. Choose a designated driver, rideshare, taxi, or public transportation. That one decision could save your life or someone else's."

Impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of preventable traffic deaths. According to NHTSA, 505 people were killed in traffic crashes nationwide during the 2024 Labor Day holiday period. Of those fatalities, 170 (34%) occurred in crashes involving at least one alcohol-impaired driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

In Connecticut, impaired driving continues to be a leading factor in fatal crashes. In 2024, the most recent year with verified data, 105 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes, representing 34% of all traffic fatalities in the state that year.

"Labor Day weekend brings more travelers to Connecticut's roads, which is why our troopers will be out in force looking for impaired and dangerous drivers," said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. "Our goal is simple: to prevent crashes before they happen. If you're celebrating, don't get behind the wheel if you've been drinking or using cannabis. Find a sober ride home instead. One good decision can save lives."

"No celebration is worth risking a life," said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. "Whether you're attending a cookout, heading to the beach, or spending time with family and friends, know how you'll get home before the celebration begins. Local law enforcement agencies across Connecticut will be working together throughout the holiday weekend to keep impaired drivers off our roads."

CTDOT reminds motorists to follow these simple safety tips:

• Designate a sober driver. Plan for a sober ride home before your celebrations begin.
• Use a taxi, a rideshare program, or public transportation. Download apps and check local transit schedules ahead of time.
• Be a good friend. If someone is about to drive impaired, take their keys and help them find a safe way home.
• Report impaired drivers. If you observe a suspected impaired driver on the road, keep a safe distance and call 911 when it is safe to do so.

Impaired driving is illegal, preventable, and puts everyone on the road at risk. Drivers arrested for operating under the influence may face significant fines, license suspension, jail time, and other penalties.

For more information about impaired driving prevention, visit nhtsa.gov.