Lexington Police Cracking Down on Illegal Driving Behavior

The Lexington Police Department is alerting drivers not get behind the wheel intoxicated or face the consequences. 

"As you celebrate the holiday season enjoying traditions, food, family and fun, be reminded that the Lexington Police Department will be out in force from Dec. 13, 2013 to Jan. 1, 2014 to protect the Commonwealth’s citizens by arresting anyone caught behind the wheel operating under the influence," a release from the department states. "The Lexington Police Department will join the 191 eligible local law enforcement agencies and the Massachusetts State Police to run extra patrols through the New Year as part of the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over mobilization, funded by a federal grant administered through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division (EOPSS-HSD)." 

According to the release, the Lexington Police Department is giving fair warning to all partygoers.  

“You’ll see us making lots of stops during this highly visible enforcement period and if we suspect anyone is driving while intoxicated, officers will show zero tolerance for impaired driving,” said Lt. Christopher Barry. “The message is simple:  Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.  Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix.  If you plan to consume alcohol, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle." 

Unfortunately, the excitement and celebrations of the holiday season can lead to terrible decisions, and serious legal consequences, the release states. Data shows that the holiday season is a particularly deadly time due to the increased number of impaired drivers on the roads. In 2011 in Massachusetts, 114 people were killed in crashes that involved drivers with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or higher.

“There is no holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell,” Lt. Barry said. “Don’t let your 2013 holiday season end in an arrest or worse, death or injury.  Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk.”

“This holiday, we will show zero tolerance for those driving under the influence on the road. If you choose to drive drunk, we will see you, we will stop you, and you will be arrested," Lt. Barry added.  

EOPSS-HSD recommends these tips for a safe holiday season:     

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home;

• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;
• If you happen to see an impaired driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement;
• And remember, Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely.

For more information, please visit www.mass.gov/highwaysafety