MATAMORAS - America is facing an impaired-driving crisis and the problem is especially acute during the summer months. That’s why the Eastern Pike Regional Police Department is joining other police agencies throughout the country in support of an intensive crackdown on impaired driving through Labor Day, September 1.  Nationally, more than $50 million will be spent on this year’s crackdown, known by its tagline: Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.

In 2006 alone, nearly 13,500 people died in crashes in which the driver or motorcycle rider was legally impaired, according to the latest statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Among them were 306 children under age 15 – innocent victims of crashes that could have been avoided. Locally in 2006 Pike County had a total of 4 DUI related fatalities.

“All too often, innocent law-abiding people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of loved ones due to this careless disregard for human life.  Because we’re committed to ending the carnage, we’re intensifying enforcement during the crackdown.  We’ll be especially vigilant during high risk nighttime hours when impaired drivers are most likely to be on our roads,” said Eastern Pike Regional Police Chief Chad Stewart.

The Eastern Pike Regional Police Department said its officers will be aggressively looking for all impaired drivers during the crackdown and will arrest anyone they find driving while impaired — regardless of age, vehicle type, or time of day.

“Our message is simple and unwavering. If we find you driving impaired, we will arrest you. No exceptions,” said Chief Stewart. “Even if you beat the odds and walk away from an impaired-driving crash alive, motorists should be aware that the consequences of driving while impaired can still virtually destroy your life."

“Driving impaired is simply not worth all the consequences. So don’t take the chance. Remember, if you are over the limit, you’re under arrest,” said Chief Stewart.