The Milton Police Department will be participating in the national Drunk Driving Over the Limit Under Arrest campaign. Read the following press release from Officer Kyle Johnson for more information.
The Milton Police Department is announcing the upcoming mobilization of Drunk Driving Over the Limit Under Arrest. This is part of a statewide campaign to crackdown on drunken driving. From August 20 to Sept. 6, 2010 officers will be out in force to arrest impaired individuals who choose to get behind the wheel. This campaign is mobilized with the intent of deterring impaired driving.
Unfortunately, Wisconsin has the shameful reputation of having the highest drunk driving rate in the nation. Last year, there were approximately 45,000 convictions for drunken driving in Wisconsin. 238 people were killed in alcohol related crashes in Wisconsin in 2009. On July 1, 2010, a new state law took effect which significantly strengthens penalties for drunken driving. Various OWI convictions yield penalties of increased jail time. Also, first time offenders with a high blood alcohol level, as well as repeat offenders, are forced to install ignition interlock devices in all vehicles they own. These devices make convicted offenders prove they are sober before they can start the vehicle.
Police want motorists to enjoy the end of the summer. Our goal is not to arrest more drunk drivers. We are simply trying to deter people from getting behind the wheel if they are impaired. If you are feeling “buzzed,” you are likely over the .08 blood alcohol limit and should not drive. Choose a sober driver before you start drinking. With your cooperation in the prevention of drunk driving, we can reduce the number of preventable traffic deaths in Wisconsin to zero.
