SCDPS Ramps Up DUI Enforcement Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

COLUMBIA - With increased traffic expected on roadways over the Labor Day weekend, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) is stepping up enforcement and education efforts to save lives as part of its Sober or Slammer campaign.

During Labor Day weekend last year, there were 10 fatal collisions, with two of those involving impaired driving on South Carolina roads.

"Every year, we see increased traffic during Labor Day weekend, especially around our coastal areas and waterways," SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV said. "The public can expect to see our troopers and State Transport Police officers working alongside local law enforcement to reduce collisions this weekend, but everyone has a role to play. Drivers can do their part by obeying the posted speed limits, putting away the phone while driving, and planning ahead for a sober ride home if your celebration includes drinking alcohol."

The Sober or Slammer enforcement period begins Friday, September 4, and runs through Monday, September 7. In addition to the expected increase in vacation travel, the weekend will see the start of the college football season and the Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway.

"Drinking and driving is a dangerous choice that has serious consequences," SC Highway Patrol Colonel Christopher Williamson said. "The decision to drive while impaired can turn a quick trip home into a tragedy. If you plan to drink alcohol, make the smart choice - put the keys down and call a sober friend, taxi, or rideshare. No celebration, destination, or inconvenience is worth risking a life."

Colonel Dwayne Wilson, Commander of the State Transport Police, added:

"As more people will be on the road during the Labor Day weekend, the State Transport Police would like to remind motorists to use extra caution around large trucks and other commercial vehicles. These bigger vehicles have much larger blind spots than average vehicles and they need more time and distance to stop. Give them plenty of room on the road. As a good rule, remember that if you can't see the driver in their side mirror, the driver can't see you."

In combination with the extra enforcement, SCDPS has ramped up its public education efforts by continuing its partnership with NASCAR driver Ross Chastain and Darlington Raceway to bring the Sober or Slammer message to NASCAR fans during the Labor Day weekend. Sober or Slammer billboards featuring Chastain have been placed across the state. Additionally, an SCDPS public service announcement with Chastain reminds fans driving drunk is a selfish choice that can have devastating consequences for everyone on the road. Fans can view the video PSA - which runs on social media and radio through September 7 here - https://youtu.be/t1WKwB3BH1s.

The agency's Sober or Slammer campaign is an enforcement and education initiative focused on curbing impaired driving on South Carolina roads and runs in coordination with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign.

Labor Day also marks the end of the 100 Deadly Days of Summer, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when the number of traffic fatalities historically increases. As of September 3, 590 people have been killed on South Carolina roadways since the beginning of the year, according to preliminary data. This is 56 fewer fatalities on our roadways compared to the same time last year.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.