Law enforcement targets drunk drivers

More than 87 law enforcement agencies across Louisiana will be out in full force this Independence Day weekend in an attempt to keep drunk drivers off the roads.

The Over the Limit, Under Arrest campaign is designed to save lives according to Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director Lt. Col. John LeBlanc.

“We’ve seen the number of Fourth of July highway deaths drop significantly over the past few years,” LeBlanc said. “These declines have coincided with the stepped-up enforcement and public outreach campaigns coordinated by the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission with state police and scores of local law enforcement agencies.”

According to LHSC information, approximately 50 percent of all traffic deaths each year during the Independence Day holiday involved alcohol use.

“Far too often, in Louisiana, holiday celebrations are marred by personal tragedies due to crashes involving impaired driving,” Louisiana State Police Superintendent Col. Mike Edmondson said. “Our hope is that the public makes responsible decisions and has an enjoyable and safe Independence Day celebration.”

Fines during the Over the Limit, Under Arrest campaign are the same as any other time of the year. In Louisiana, driving while intoxicated can result in fines of up to $1,000 and jail time for initial offenses. An adult driver can be arrested for having a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. The blood alcohol content limit for people under the age of 21 is 0.02 percent.