Maine Police Step Up Patrols for Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

Maine law enforcement agencies are stepping up patrols to help holiday commuters survive the drive.

Is It My Imagination Or Are There More Cops On the Roads Lately?

Nope, it's not your imagination. There have been an increased number of police officers on the state's roads recently. Maine's police agencies have partnered with the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety for the 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign. This initiative has already begun and will last through January 1st, 2023.

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Why Now?

With the holiday season underway, Maine's law enforcement agencies recognize that the impaired driving numbers are bound to go up. So they're encouraging residents to designate a sober driver whenever they plan to use alcohol and/or substances. And by 'sober driver' they  mean someone who doesn't drink any alcohol or use any substances for the duration of the outing. (as opposed to someone who says they're just going to have one beer) If you don't have a designated driver, call a cab, an Uber, or a sober friend to give you a ride.

So What's the Goal of the Program?

Lieutenant Jamie Pelletier  of the Madawaska Police Department says officers are trained to detect erratic behavior behind the wheel and will pull over anyone who seems to be impaired.

During the stop, officers conduct roadside interviews with motorists looking for signs of impairment through visual/audible clues. Our mission is to ultimately keep the communities  we serve and protect safe.

A good rule of thumb is to think of someone you love before you get behind the wheel. When you drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, you put yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road at risk. Imagine if your loved one was driving and met you on the road. Would they be in danger of getting hurt because of your driving under the influence? Remember that if you do hit someone or get in a crash and injure or kill your passengers, they're somebody else's loved one. A sister, mother, daughter, brother, father, or son who will be missed.

Make this an enjoyable and safe holiday season and Drive Sober, Maine.