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UCPD sending out message: ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’

UCPD sending out message: ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’
As local residents celebrate the holiday season enjoying traditions, food, family and fun, they are being reminded the Union City Police Department will be out in force from now to Jan. 2 to arrest anyone caught driving drunk.
“The message is simple — ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.’ Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix,” Union City Police Chief Joe Garner said. “If you plan to consume alcohol, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle or ride a motorcycle.”
Unfortunately, millions of drivers on America’s highways still think they are invincible and they choose to jeopardize their safety and the safety of others on the roads, he said.
“There will be no spreading holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell,” Garner said. “Don’t let your 2011 holiday season end in an arrest or, worse, death. Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk.”
In December 2009, there were 753 people killed in crashes that involved drivers or motorcycle riders with blood alcohol concentrations of .08 grams per deciliter or higher.
Union City police recommend 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 are impaired, call a sober friend or family member.
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement.
• If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help him or her make other arrangements to get home safely.
Published in The Messenger 12.20.11