The statewide “Booze It & Lose It” campaign — an anti–drunk driving initiative combining public education with stepped-up law enforcement — is now underway. Through January 4, law enforcement agencies in all 100 counties will increase patrols and conduct sobriety checkpoints to catch impaired drivers and get them off the roads.
Last year, more than 11,000 alcohol-related crashes in North Carolina resulted in 361 deaths. Educating drivers remains a key strategy in preventing these tragedies. Officials are reminding everyone to enjoy the holidays responsibly by never drinking and driving, choosing a designated sober driver in advance, or using a taxi or rideshare service to get home safely.
Those caught driving while impaired can face jail time, loss of their license, and an average of $10,000 in fines, towing costs, and other expenses.
