Last year, in the final four weeks of summer, 45 people died on roadways in Iowa; Nearly 30% of those fatalities were caused by impaired driving*. The Governor ¢â‚¬â„¢s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is partnering with law enforcement statewide to support enforcement efforts aimed at decreasing impaired driving. From August 15-September 1, agencies are participating in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ¢â‚¬â„¢s (NHTSA) Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement project. During this time, the public will see an increased presence of officers working together to remove impaired drivers/motorcycle riders from the road. 

¢â‚¬Å“Impaired driving can take many forms, and our law enforcement officers and Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) are trained to identify all kinds of impairment. Whether it ¢â‚¬â„¢s alcohol or drugs, law enforcement can and will identify and stop impaired drivers when they see them, ¢â‚¬ � says DRE State Coordinator Todd Olmstead.

Making a plan for a sober ride can be a lifesaving decision. Designate a sober driver if you need a ride, or call a taxi/rideshare service. If available, use your community ¢â‚¬â„¢s sober ride program. If you see or suspect an impaired driver/rider on the road, contact local law enforcement.

GTSB works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa ¢â‚¬â„¢s roadways using federally funded grants.