Tallahassee, FL - December 15, 2011

Gov. Rick Scott recently proclaimed December as "National Drunk and Drugged Driving (3D) Prevention Month." As part of Florida's focus on safe highway travel during the holiday season, the Florida Highway Patrol will join thousands of other law enforcement and highway safety agencies across the nation in "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," a nationwide campaign targeting impaired driving, beginning tomorrow through Jan. 2, 2012.

Impaired driving is one of the deadliest crimes, especially during the holiday period. During the 2010 Christmas and New Year's holiday travel period, approximately 35 percent of the traffic fatalities in Florida were alcohol related. Motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians who comply with our state's traffic laws and use sound judgment can help make the holiday period safer and less stressful for everyone.

"Impaired driving continues to be a priority for law enforcement in the state, and the Florida Highway Patrol will be intensifying enforcement during the holidays," said FHP Director, Col. David Brierton. "Our goal is to create the safest possible driving environment by modifying driiver behavior - and helping drivers make better decisions."

FHP Auxiliary and Reserve troopers will augment the Patrol during the heightened travel periods.

The Patrol offers these tips to make your holidays safer:
- Plan ahead
- Use a designated driver
- If you are impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a friend or family member to get you home safely.
- Call *FHP (*347) to report intoxicated or aggressive drivers, or if your vehicle breaks down and you need assistance. To request emergency services, dial 911.

"Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" is a deterrence program organized by the U. S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Safety Administration that focuses on combining high-visibility enforcement with heightened public awareness. For more information on the campaign, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education, and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www.FLHSMV.org or follow us on Twitter @FDHSMV. You can find us on Facebook, too.