Columbia County, WI – Drivers across Columbia County are being warned to plan sober rides starting today as law enforcement launches its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period ahead of the busy holiday season.
According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the high-visibility enforcement campaign runs Thursday, December 12, through Wednesday, January 1, targeting impaired drivers during mid-December travel and the Christmas and New Year’s holiday weekends.
Authorities say extra patrols will be on the roads throughout the county, joining agencies statewide in an effort to reduce alcohol- and drug-impaired driving. Deputies will be watching for signs of impairment at all hours, particularly during nighttime and weekend travel periods.
Sheriff’s officials emphasized that impaired driving comes with steep consequences. If a driver blows a 0.08 blood alcohol concentration or higher, the average cost of an OWI in Wisconsin can reach $10,000 once fines, court costs, attorney fees, and increased insurance rates are factored in. Officials stress that rideshare services, taxis, or designated drivers are far cheaper — and far safer.
The enforcement effort is funded in part by state and federal traffic safety grants and is part of a coordinated push across Wisconsin to prevent serious crashes and fatalities during one of the most dangerous travel periods of the year.
Law enforcement encourages anyone planning to drink to make arrangements before heading out and reminds residents to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911.
Drivers are urged to slow down, buckle up, and commit to sober driving every day throughout the holiday season.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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