BUZZED DRIVING IS DRUNK DRIVING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

(11/26/2008) The holiday season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is one of the deadliest and most dangerous times of the year due to an increase in impaired driving.

That’s why the New Haven Police Department is joining forces with other National, State and local highway safety officials to remind all holiday partiers that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving and to never forget to designate a sober driver before the festivities begin.

For a safer Holiday season, follow these simple guidelines:

• If you’re impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely;

• Promptly report drunk drivers you see to law enforcement;

• Wearing seat belts is the best defense against an impaired driver;

Beginning on Wednesday, November 26th, the New Haven Police Department will be setting up sobriety checkpoints and conducting saturation patrols in neighborhoods throughout the city. Impaired drivers will be subject to immediate arrest. This year, New Haven Police have already made over 300 arrests for impaired driving.

Checkpoints may be in place at the following locations:

Ella Grasso Boulevard between Congress and Washington

Whitney Avenue between Humphrey and East Rock

State Street between James and Ferry

College Street between Chapel and South Frontage

Through strict enforcement of impaired driving laws, the New Haven Police Department wants to ensure a safe and fun holiday season for everyone traveling in our city.

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Contact Name: Jessica Mayorga

Contact Email: jmayorga@newhavenct.net

Contact Phone: 203-946-7660