SHERIFF ISSUES SAFETY TIPS THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND
Monmouth County: Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden is urging drivers to be alert, stay sober and avoid texting while driving as the first unofficial weekend of summer approaches. Along with backyard barbeques and holiday parties, there will be an increase of travelers on the roadways during the Memorial Day weekend. Law enforcement will remain vigilant to keep roadways safe and free of drunk drivers as well as distracted drivers.
“We want everyone to enjoy the long holiday weekend, 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 yourself or others, it’s important to follow these safety tips:
- Before going out, designate a driver who will not consume any alcohol.
- 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, offer to find them a ride or alert your nearest law enforcement agency.
- 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 2013, there were 542 fatalities on N.J. roadways, of them 146 involved alcohol impaired driving.
The nationwide Click It or Ticket campaign has also kicked off and law enforcement officers will ticket offenders of the seat belt law. Additionally, motorists must adhere to the hands free cell phone laws. Talking and texting while driving, is against the law in New Jersey.
“Any fatality or crash on our roads is one too many,” said Sheriff Golden. “Enforcing the law and educating the public about the dangers of drinking and driving, the importance of seat belt use and obeying cell phone safety laws are the keys to keeping our roadways safer.”
