‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ in New Bedford

It's NEVER a good idea to drive under the influence, but you definitely do not want to make that bad decision in New Bedford -- or anywhere in the country -- in August.

From the New Bedford Police Department Press Release:

"The New Bedford Police Department will increase impaired driving patrols on local roads over the next three weeks with grant funds from the Highway Safety Division of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS).

New Bedford Police will join local departments across the state as well as the Massachusetts State Police in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement mobilization and public information campaign Friday, Aug. 10 through Friday, Aug. 31.

This year’s campaign will urge drivers drinking alcohol or using marijuana and other drugs to plan ahead and designate a sober driver, use a ride-share service or take public transportation.

“Impaired drivers create a dangerous situation for everyone around them, threatening the destruction of lives and entire families. It's everyone's responsibility to be a friend and to prevent an impaired driver from causing a tragedy,” said Chief Joseph Cordeiro. “This grant will help increase our efforts during the busy summer travel season to keep our roads free of impaired drivers and avoid the tragedy they wreak.”

“Getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol, using marijuana or both is one of the most dangerous things drivers can do,” said Jeff Larason, Director of the Highway Safety Division. “A little planning can save your life or someone else’s. Regret or remorse won’t bring someone back.”

Many families, including my own, have felt the pain of losing a loved one in an accident cause by impaired driving. Be smart and don't make this horrible mistake.