Oklahoma Law Enforcement Ready For Busy Holiday Weekend

NewsOn6.com

UNDATED -- Oklahoma law enforcement agencies will be out in full force during the July 4th holiday weekend, going after impaired drivers with a nationwide program "Drunk Driving: Over The Limit, Under Arrest."

"Driving while drunk isn't worth the tremendous risk," said Scott Watkins, OHSO director. "No matter what your age, if you've been drinking, you need to find a safe and sober ride home or your chances of arrest are high."

In a news release, the OHP says during the 78-hour Independence Day holiday period in 2009, five people were killed in five fatal crashes on Oklahoma roadways. Alcohol use was a determining factor in three of those crashes.

Thirty-seven more people were injured in 25 other alcohol-related collisions in Oklahoma.

Watkins recommends the following guidelines for those planning a Fourth of July celebration:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin. Designate a non-drinking driver and give that person your keys.
• If you're impaired, call a taxi, a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don't hesitate to call law enforcement officers.
• If you know someone who is about to drive a vehicle or ride a motorcycle while impaired, take his or her keys and help make other arrangements to get home safely.