SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS ASKING DRIVERS TO STAY SAFE AND SOBER THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND

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Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden is urging drivers to be alert and stay sober throughout the Labor Day holiday weekend. Along with backyard barbeques and holiday parties, there will be an increase of travelers on the roadways during the extended weekend. Law enforcement will remain vigilant to keep roadways safe and free of drunk drivers.

“We want everyone to enjoy the last weekend of the summer, but, if you are going to drink, don’t drive, it’s as simple as that,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “Law enforcement will be out in full force and on the lookout for drunk drivers.”

In an effort to avoid presenting a danger to oneself or others it’s important to follow these safety tips:

  • Before going out, designate a driver who will not consume any alcohol the entire night.
  • DO NOT DRIVE if you are impaired. Call a cab, a sober friend or family member. If you don’t have a ride stay where you are.
  • If you see someone about to get behind the wheel or on a motorcycle after they have been drinking, take their keys and find them a ride with someone who is sober.
  • Under no circumstances should adults provide alcohol to a minor or allow anyone under 21 to consume alcohol while at their home.

In New Jersey, an individual is considered over the legal limit if he/she operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or greater. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2011, there were 193 alcohol impaired driving fatalities in New Jersey, of that 16 occurred in Monmouth County.

“Any fatality on our roads is one too many,” said Sheriff Golden. “Enforcing the law and educating the public about the dangers of drinking and driving is the key to keeping our roadways safer.”