POUGHKEEPSIE … As residents prepare to celebrate Labor Day, a holiday dedicated to honoring the hard work, contributions, and resilience of the American workforce, law enforcement across Dutchess County will be stepping up efforts to keep communities safe. Throughout Labor Day weekend, officers will increase patrols to discourage impaired driving as part of a statewide STOP-DWI campaign running through Monday, Sept. 7, with officers focused on removing intoxicated motorists from local roads.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Labor Day is a time to celebrate our workforce and enjoy time with family and friends. Let’s celebrate safely and look out for one another. If you drink, please plan for a safe ride home. One smart choice can save a life.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 511 people died nationwide in traffic crashes during the 2023 Labor Day holiday period. Alcohol was a factor in more than one-third of those deaths, and nearly two-thirds involved drivers with blood-alcohol levels close to twice the legal limit.
The Labor Day enforcement campaign is supported by the New York State STOP-DWI Association and funded by the STOP-DWI Foundation through a grant from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. Similar high-visibility enforcement efforts take place throughout the year during major holiday periods.
While impaired driving deaths have declined over the years, they remain preventable. Increased enforcement and public awareness help reduce crashes and encourage drivers to make safe choices.
Motorists are encouraged to be prepared for their celebrations by choosing a sober driver, using public transportation, or arranging a ride through a friend or rideshare service before celebrating. The free “Have a Plan” app helps people find a safe ride home and is available through the STOP-DWI website at stopdwi.org.
