Nearly 200 law enforcement agencies across Virginia are increasing their efforts to deter impaired driving as part of the 2025 “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. The initiative includes 705 saturation patrols and 86 sobriety checkpoints scheduled throughout the Labor Day weekend.
According to state data, there were 6,767 alcohol-related crashes in Virginia last year, resulting in 318 deaths and more than 4,300 injuries. This marked an increase of 8.5% in fatalities compared to the previous year.
“Over last year’s Labor Day weekend in Virginia, ten people lost their lives in traffic crashes, with one-third of those deaths involving a driver who was drinking,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “In addition, over the same weekend last year, there were 95 alcohol-related crashes and 19 serious alcohol-related traffic injuries. These heartbreaking events are avoidable, and I encourage everyone to plan ahead, line up a safe ride home and do not drink and drive.”
The campaign has been active for 24 years and is focused on both public education and law enforcement measures. This year’s increased enforcement period runs from August 13 through September 1.
“Alcohol-related crashes are preventable,” said Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III. “One simple decision can either save a life or take a life, which is why I urge everyone to make the right decision and do not drink and drive over the upcoming holiday weekend.”
The campaign targets young male drivers aged 21 to 35 based on recent research by GWI (Global Web Index). A survey conducted among this group found that while almost all respondents believe it is important to arrange a safe ride after drinking, only about two-thirds regularly do so.
“We’re working with law enforcement officers to help stop impaired drivers and save lives across the Commonwealth. Ahead of your Labor Day weekend plans, choose to plan for a safe and sober ride home before your festivities,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “You don’t want to make a choice that could potentially end your life or someone else’s.”
Since its launch in 2002, the campaign has contributed to significant reductions: alcohol-related traffic crashes have dropped by nearly 40%, fatalities by just over 11%, and injuries by almost half when comparing figures from before its inception.
Virginia State Police will also participate in Operation CARE (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), a national program designed to reduce incidents caused by impaired driving as well as other unsafe behaviors during high-traffic periods like holidays.
“With 181 law enforcement agencies participating throughout the Commonwealth, Virginians will see a significantly stepped-up effort by state and local law enforcement to identify and apprehend impaired drivers through the Labor Day holiday,” said Virginia State Police Superintendent Colonel Matthew D. Hanley.
Public awareness efforts include digital messaging under “What’s the Damage?” which can be accessed at WhatsTheDamage.org. The overall campaign receives support from grants provided by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles through partnerships with organizations such as Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP).
