James City County police to step up patrols to stop drunk drivers

James City County police will increase patrolling from Aug. 17 through Sept. 5 as part of a national program to deter drunk driving.

The program, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” is implemented ahead of the start of the school year and Labor Day weekend, which previously have seen higher rates of drunk driving, according to police. On Labor Day in 2019, there were 451 fatal car crashes across the nation, and 38% of those fatalities involved a drunk driver.

James City County will add extra law enforcement on the road during the increased patrols to look for drunk drivers. Police also suggest the follow tips for safe driving:

• If you will be drinking, do not expect to drive. Plan your safe return home before you start the party. Designate a sober driver ahead of time and follow through with your commitment.

• If you become intoxicated, do not drive for any reason. Call a taxi or utilize a ridesharing platform like Uber or Lyft. Phone a sober friend or family member or use public transportation.

• If someone you know has been drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel. Take their keys, take them home or help them arrange a safe way home. If you are the host, request that your guests drive sober.

• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact your local law enforcement immediately.

• Always use safe driving habits and wear your seatbelt to mitigate the risk of death or serious injury in a car accident.

Madison Peek, madison.peek@virginiamedia.com