During this coming Labor Day weekend, the Brick Township Police Department will be stepping up driving while intoxicated enforcement by implementing sobriety checkpoints and roving patrols.
Of the 13 fatalities that have occurred in the Township between 2012 and now, nine have involved individuals that were under the influence of alcohol, police said.
In New Jersey, the division of Highway traffic safety utilizes the "drive sober or get pulled over" campaign to achieve its prevention goals. The checkpoints have several purposes, police said.
The goals are: educating the public about the dangers of driving while intoxicated, hoping to prevent the potential for vehicular homicides, and deterring people from driving while intoxicated.
Brick police offer these tips for safe traveling during the weekend:
Don't drink and drive. Designate a driver or take a cab.
Eliminate distractions, including the use of cell phones, or texting and driving.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle.
- Slow down, especially if the weather is bad.
- Don't drive tired.
- Report impaired drivers to law enforcement. In New Jersey, drivers may Dial #77 to report drunk or aggressive drivers.
- Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
- Always make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before your trip.
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