The Norman Police Department is set to increase enforcement with regard to unsafe driving behavior and impaired driving through New Year’s Day across Norman. Enforcement efforts will include high-visibility patrols starting December 18.

The holidays are a time of celebration, full of excitement and endless festivities. Oftentimes, these celebrations bring higher numbers of impaired drivers to the roads, endangering those drivers and others.

In 2019, 12 people lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic crashes on Oklahoma roads during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Eight of those individuals were killed in collisions with an impaired driver. These fatalities are preventable, and drivers must remember that driving impaired by any substance — drugs or alcohol — is illegal behavior. 

Over the Christmas and New Year’s Eve holidays, the Norman Police Department will make a concentrated effort to identify and address impaired drivers and unsafe driving behaviors. Remember, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

If you are planning to celebrate Christmas or ring in the new year with an alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, utilize a ride sharing service, use public transportation, or phone a sober friend or family member to get home safely. If you see an impaired driver on the road, report it to Norman police at 405-321-1444.

Holiday impaired driving enforcement is funded in part by a grant through the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office and is done in partnership with the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign and ENDUI Oklahoma.