Lawton, OK – As the holiday season continues with Christmas just behind us and New Year’s celebrations ahead, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to stay safe on the roads. In 2024 alone, 407 people lost their lives in drug or alcohol-related crashes, many of which could have been avoided.
To help reduce these tragedies, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol’s ENDUI (End Driving Under the Influence) team has teamed up with local police departments to conduct a sobriety checkpoint. The checkpoint will be in operation from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. on December 27, targeting impaired drivers in an effort to make the roads safer for all.
Authorities are stressing the importance of making responsible decisions when it comes to holiday celebrations. The checkpoint is a proactive measure to prevent alcohol and drug-related crashes, which continue to be a significant risk during the festive season. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to curb impaired driving and prevent the devastating consequences it causes.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol urges drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, or use alternative transportation options if they plan to drink. With New Year’s Eve fast approaching, law enforcement officials hope the checkpoint serves as a reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the responsibility each driver has in keeping the roads safe.
As the holidays draw to a close, officials are calling on everyone to do their part in making sure the season ends without tragedy. By staying sober behind the wheel, drivers can help prevent further fatalities and ensure a safer start to the new year.