Operation Zero Tolerance: You Drink, You Drive, You Lose.

The Fourth of July is not only one of our most cherished holidays as Americans, it's also one of our most deadly holidays because of drivers who drive while under the influence of alcohol and drugs.  It’s a time of the year when Americans should be enjoying family outings, picnics, apple pie, watermelon and traditional fireworks (the legal ones, of course).  Unfortunately, the sad fact of the matter is that nationwide, almost 400 motorists lost their lives in 2010 during the July 4^th travel period.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 39% of those fatalities came at the hands of a driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. That's the legal limit.

In an effort to prevent more tragic and unnecessary deaths, the Dalton Police Department is joining law enforcement agencies across the country in a national mobilization to target drivers driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.  Operation Zero Tolerance is currently underway and will run through midnight July 4^th.  The DPD will be using saturated patrols and road checks to combat drunk drivers during the mobilization.

So remember, as you plan for food and fun during the Fourth, designate a driver or call a cab if you're planning to drink.  If you can't do either one, plan to stay overnight whereever you're drinking or walk home.  Whatever you do, don't drink and drive.  Over the Limit, Under Arrest!

Comments

[CitizenA]

So, if I understand correctly, you can legally drink and drive as long as you stay under .08. The officer can't arrest you below that limit?

[DPD]

That's not correct. If an officer observes a driver operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner and finds that driver to be impaired but below the .08 BAC limit, the officer can arrest that driver on a charge of "DUI-Less Safe" meaning that the driver is judged to be a "less safe" driver due to the presence of alcohol and unsafe driving, such as but not limited to crossing the middle line, speeding, etc.

[MDW]

I regards to "...or walk home". What constitutes a Pedestrian Under the Influence charge?

[DPD]

Georgia Code 40-6-95 states that "A person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug to a degree which renders him a hazard shall not walk or be upon any roadway or the shoulder of any roadway. Violation of this Code section is a misdemeanor and is punishable upon conviction by a fine not to exceed $500.00."

Basically, this code is designed to keep intoxicated people out of harm's way as it relates to the road. If a person can't manage to walk down a sidewalk without weaving so badly that they might cause traffic problems, then that person should opt for a cab or another safe way home. Obviously, it would be safer to not become that intoxicated.