FTPD Cracking Down on Drunk Driving

In an effort to help keep local roads as safe as possible the Freehold Township Police Department announced recently that they are taking part in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” campaign along with departments across the country.

Starting on August 16 and running through September 2 the FTPD has been setting up checkpoints throughout the township and also conducting patrols on the roads looking for people who may be driving while intoxicated. 

Gary Poedbubicky, Acting Director of Division of Highway Traffic Safety said the program has been running since 1999 and has shown progress in combating drunk driving. “Recent surveys indicate that many people harbor the dangerous belief that after a few drinks they’re still safe to drive,” he said. “Even one drink can impair your judgement and reaction time, putting not only yourself, but everyone on the road, in danger.”

In 2012, alcohol-impaired fatalities accounted for 19 percent of New Jersey’s motor vehicle fatalities according to information provided by the local department. The program provides grants to the departments to help cover costs of the enforcement over the two week program.

The department made several suggestions on how to avoid driving dangerously and risk getting caught driving while impaired including:

• If you plan to drink, designate a driver, someone who will not drink alcohol, before going out.

• Take mass transit, a taxi, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.