St. Mary Parish Sheriff Blaise Smith has announced the schedule for the upcoming “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative that will take place from August 18 to September 4, 2023. This campaign is organized and financed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in conjunction with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission.
The St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office (SMPSO) will collaborate with local agencies throughout the campaign to carry out DUI checkpoints. Extra deputies will be allocated to patrolling efforts in order to detect and deter impaired drivers, ensuring the safety of all road users.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that drunk driving is an alarming trend, responsible for over 10,000 fatalities each year on average.
Sheriff Blaise Smith urges the public to make arrangements for safe transportation before deciding to consume alcohol, emphasizing that one should never get behind the wheel after drinking any alcoholic beverages.
Additionally, driving under the influence of illegal substances can result in a DWI charge, and even some legally prescribed medications can affect driving ability. The sheriff recommends always following prescription instructions and checking labels on over-the-counter medications for possible side effects.