Enforcement for underage drinking begins October 15

 

As fall back to school activities increase, law enforcement across the state will have extra patrols to enforce the law on underage drinking, as well as conduct compliance checks and shoulder taps as a part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign from October 15 to November 15.

This enforcement effort is to remind those under 21 that drinking alcohol underage is illegal.  Law enforcement will educate young drivers that no matter your age, driving under the influence of alcohol is not only illegal but also dangerous. If underage persons are found to be consuming or in possession of alcohol, those individuals could face fines and end up in court.

Preliminary data in 2019 indicates 40% of crash fatalities in North Dakota are alcohol-related.

“We want everyone on the road to be safe,” says Wahpeton Police Chief Scott Thorsteinson. “That includes our young drivers who might not yet understand the personal responsibility that comes with driving, and that drinking and driving is never OK, especially when you are underage.” 

Alcohol and drug-related crashes are 100% preventable. Many lives would be saved in North Dakota each year if every driver consistently makes the choice to always drive sober, designate a sober driver, or use a ride-hailing service. 

This campaign is part of the Vision Zero strategy to eliminate motor vehicle crash fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roads.

Visit the North Dakota Crash Memorial wall to view memorials built on the hope of preventing another death on North Dakota roads.