Vision Zero: New York City Will Aggressively Enforce DWI During the Winter Holidays

Dec 23, 2025

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), the New York City Police Department (NYPD), NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), and other Vision Zero agencies came together today to announce major initiatives to crack down on speeding and drunk driving going into the winter holidays, a period which has traditionally seen an increase in dangerous driving.

"Over the last four years, we have continued to make progress on Vision Zero goals through our partnership with sister agencies helping us help keep our streets safe," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. "With expanded enforcement, drivers need to know not only that they will get stopped if they have been drinking, but also that getting behind the wheel drunk or impaired now comes with far greater consequences. Driving is a privilege, and we want everyone to be able to return home to their families for the holidays and new year."

"The NYPD wants every New Yorker to fully enjoy their holiday season - but to do so responsibly," said NYPD Chief of Transportation Olufunmilola Obe. "As they do year-round, our officers will be highly visible on New York City roadways during this busy period to monitor reckless driving and increase enforcement against intoxicated motorists. We encourage New Yorkers to plan ahead and use public transportation or a ride-hailing service, or ask a friend or family member for a ride. Protect yourselves, protect each other, and be safe."

"This holiday season, think before you drink. The risks of unsafe driving can affect all New Yorkers, so the decisions you make can save lives - including your own," said TLC Commissioner and Chair David Do. "Being impaired by alcohol or drugs behind the wheel puts you and those around you in danger. TLC regulates 180,000 taxi and for-hire drivers who are drug tested, Vision Zero trained and available to you. Let them do the driving while you have fun."

"As New Yorkers head to gatherings and celebrations across our city, if you choose to drink, it's important to plan ahead for how you will get around safely. Whether you're taking the subway, sharing a ride, or designating a driver, preparation can make all the difference," said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. "This holiday season let's look out for one another and make decisions that keep our families, and our city, safe. And for anyone who feels that drinking alcohol is negatively affecting their life, it's never too late to talk to a friend, family member, mental health professional, or your medical provider. For additional support, you can call or text 988."

"As a specialist in trauma critical-care surgery, I see the consequences of impaired driving firsthand, especially during the holiday season. These are not accidents because they are preventable," said Dr. Melvin E. Stone Jr, Chief of Surgery, NYC Health & Hospitals/Kings County (who also recorded a video message). "Celebrations should never end in tragedy. This holiday season, please plan ahead: don't drive impaired and help ensure that everyone gets home safely."

NYPD Holiday Enforcement: NYPD will be actively enforcing laws against speeding and DWI throughout the holiday season and into the new year. Enforcement will be conducted by NYPD Highway Patrol and local precinct officers using sight and remote sensing devices on major highways, roads, and secondary streets where excessive speeds have previously been observed, including by DOT speed cameras.

Historic declines in traffic deaths: Traffic deaths, which once exceeded 1,000 annually in the early 20th century, have declined to historic lows over the past four years, to well under 250 annually. One death is one too many, and that is why Vision Zero agencies have - and will continue - to work with urgency to reduce crashes. By 2023, New York City recorded the lowest number of pedestrian deaths in history, and overall traffic fatalities have remained near record lows through 2025.

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