Let’s Work Together to End Drunk Driving!

TAMPA, FL. (August 31, 2026) - - From August 19 through September 7, 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will be working alongside local law enforcement to deter drunk driving and prevent tragedies during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The message is clear: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

During the 2024 Labor Day holiday (6 p.m. August 30 - 5:59 a.m. September 3), there were 505 traffic crash fatalities nationwide. Of these 505 fatalities, 34% (170) involved a drunk driver. Seventy-seven percent of the impaired drivers killed had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 or higher. Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2024, 40% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher. (Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Traffic Safety Marketing, "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over: August/Labor Day Campaign.")

"Driving under the influence is 100% preventable," said Acting Chief Brett Owen. "Getting behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a reckless decision that can lead to irreversible consequences. This Labor Day Weekend, make the right choice. Make the choice that will help get you and everyone home safely." 

If a driver intends to drink during a Labor Day festivity, he or she should plan ahead for a safe ride home by securing a designated driver or calling a taxi or rideshare. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment and endangers others on the road.

If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive, take away the keys, and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact local law enforcement.

For more information on impaired driving, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/drive-sober-or-get-pulled-over.