The East Bridgewater Police Department will join more than 270 local police department and the Massachusetts State Police in the Governor's Highway Safety Bureau's You Drink & Drive, You Lose Mobilization from December 19 to January 8, 2006. This GHSP is a program of the Executive office of Public Safety.
During this holiday season, we will conduct extra traffic enforcement to look for impaired drivers, as well as those who speed, drive aggressively, and do not use safety belts and child safety seats. The East Bridgewater Police Department under the control of Chief John E. Cowan wants everyone to be able to have a safe and enjoyable holiday season with family and friends.
Recently the battle to reduce drunk driving in Massachusetts got an important boost with the adoption of Melanie's law. This legislation strengthened the drunk dring laws of Massachusetts, especially the consequences for repeat drunk drivers. Yet even first-time offenders can be affected by this new legislation. For instance, anyone who commits manslaughter while operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is subject to a minimum mandatory five-year prison sentence and 15-year license suspension.
The governor's Highway Safety Bureau along with state and local police provide the following tips to stay safer this holiday season:
Keep your cool behind the wheel: allow extra time for unexpected traffic and weather conditions.
Obey posted speed limits
Report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911
Always wear your safety belt - it's your best defense against a drunk driver
If you plan to drive, completely avoid alcohol
If your celebration plans involving drinking, before you head out choose a sober designated driver
Never accept a ride with a drunk driver
Remember your liability as a party host and take steps to prevent guests from drinking too much as well as keeping those underage from consuming alcoholic beverages. Be prepared to provide a sober ride, a taxi, or a bed to a guest that has had too much to drink
The East Bridgewater Police Department wishes all a Happy Holiday Season
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