Crime & Safety

Sandy Springs Police to Crack Down on DUI Drivers

Georgia is on track to experience an increase in traffic fatalities.

 

From Sandy Springs Police Capt. Steve Rose

Sandy Springs Police will conduct a number of speed enforcement details in addition to seatbelt enforcement and safety checks during an Operation Zero Tolerance initiative over the holiday season.  

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If fatalities maintain their current rate, this year, Georgia will surpass last year’s total of 1,226 deaths on our roadways. It’s the first time in 6 years, Georgia is on track to experience an increase in traffic fatalities.

See: Elderly Woman in Friday Night Crash Charged With DUI

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In recent years, Georgia has always used the holiday season to reinforce the state’s zero tolerance policy for impaired driving. If you’re over the limit, you’re under arrest. However, the end of 2012 has brought a new sense of urgency.

Statistics show the holiday season isn’t just dangerous in Georgia. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,597 people were killed in traffic crashes across the country in December 2010 and 775 of those were killed in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers.

While the loss of life is tragic enough, drunk driving can also create a tremendous financial burden. Statistics show that the average cost of a DUI can climb to nearly $10,000.

The good news is there are a few simple tips to get home safely if you plan to drink this holiday season:

  • Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
  • Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your keys at home;
  • If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;

Georgia’s annual holiday campaign of Operation Zero Tolerance begins on Dec. 14th  and will last through New Year’s Day. For more information on enforcement activities contact Sandy Springs Police. For more information on Operation Zero Tolerance, visit www.gahighwaysafty.or


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