JACKSON COUNTY – While many families are heading out on road trips for Spring Break 2019, Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) deputies are working to keep those roads safe. From Monday, March 25, to Sunday, March 31, extra deputies will be out and about looking for impaired drivers.
Patrols will focus on rural areas and roads leading to destinations such as lakes, campgrounds, and winter recreation areas. Grant funding allows JCSO to put extra deputies on the road to look for impaired drivers without taking away from normal calls for service. It is part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign sponsored by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Deputies say prevention is the key – follow these tips to help ensure you have a safe spring break:
- DRINK OR DRIVE: Once you know where you'll celebrate, decide whether you're drinking or driving – choose only one and stick to it.
- WEED WARNING: Even though the recreational use of marijuana is legal for adults in Oregon, it is not legal (or safe) to drive while impaired by the drug.
- GETTING AROUND: Before you head out, know how you’re getting home. If you're the designated driver, don't drink. If you're impaired and your ride falls through, use a taxi or rideshare service, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely.
- PASSENGERS, TOO: Drivers aren't the only ones at risk. Only accept a ride from a sober driver.
- HELP A FRIEND: If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, help them to make other transportation arrangements or offer them a place to stay.
- SAY SOMETHING: If you suspect an impaired driver on the roadway, call 911 immediately.
Deputies also remind drivers to buckle up and put their cell phones away. Have a safe and fun spring break!
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