Concord, NH – As New Year’s Eve celebrations begin tonight, law enforcement across New Hampshire is stepping up patrols to deter impaired driving and prevent deadly crashes on state roadways.
According to the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety (NHOHS), impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes statewide. In 2023, impairment was reported as a factor in nearly 70% of crashes that resulted in death. Officials say the risk increases significantly during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations.
“Start the new year with the right choice: a safe ride home,” said New Hampshire State Police Lt. Christopher Storm, Commander of the NHOHS. Storm urged residents and visitors to plan ahead by choosing a designated driver, rideshare, taxi, or sober host if alcohol or drugs will be involved. “Every option is better than putting lives at risk,” he said.
State data shows the ongoing toll of impaired driving. From 2019 through 2024, 191 people were arrested for driving while intoxicated during the New Year’s holiday period, defined as December 31 through January 1. More than 700 crashes were reported statewide during that timeframe. One person was killed during the 2022 holiday period, and as of 2025, 134 people have been killed in traffic crashes across New Hampshire.
The enforcement push is part of the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which runs through Wednesday, Jan. 1. Police departments across cities and counties statewide will conduct high-visibility patrols focused on impaired driving. The initiative is funded through grants from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by NHOHS.
Impaired driving is illegal in New Hampshire and carries severe penalties, including fines that can exceed $10,000, license suspension, jail time, and long-term consequences. Officials urge anyone who suspects a drunk driver to call 911 immediately.
More information on impaired driving laws and prevention is available at highwaysafety.dos.nh.gov.
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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