Law enforcement agencies across Virginia, including the Prince William County Police Department, are participating in a statewide campaign to deter drunk driving. The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over initiative will run in Prince William County through September 1, 2025.
A law enacted in Virginia in 2020 increased penalties for drunk driving offenses that result in serious injury. Drunk driving causing permanent and significant impairment is now classified as a class 4 felony, carrying a prison sentence of two to ten years. Drunk driving resulting in serious but not permanently disabling injuries is categorized as a class 6 felony.
The campaign comes at the end of the summer travel season and as schools prepare to reopen. Law enforcement aims to keep roads safe by raising public awareness about impaired driving and its consequences.
“Drive Sober is a crucial joint effort between public and private partners working to stop traffic fatalities. During this time, the Police Department will continue to raise public awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. By educating our communities on the importance of driving sober, we can help avoid loss of life, debilitating injuries, and unbearable heartache,” stated the department.
Police emphasize that impaired driving puts many people at risk each day and warn that there will be no tolerance for those caught breaking these laws. “Impaired driving is both reckless and preventable. Drivers break the law by driving impaired, putting thousands of travelers at risk every day. The Police Department wants drivers to know impaired driving is not tolerated. No excuses and no warnings. If drivers are caught driving impaired, they will be arrested.”
The department urges motorists: “Nothing kills a buzz faster than getting a DUI. Remember, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over!”
