Bismarck  (NDDOT) – As fall back to school activities increase, law enforcement across the state will have extra patrols to enforce the law on underage drinking, as well as conduct compliance checks and shoulder taps as a part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

This enforcement effort is to remind those under 21 that drinking alcohol underage is illegal.  Law enforcement will educate young drivers that no matter your age, driving under the influence of alcohol is not only illegal but also dangerous. If underage persons are found to be consuming or in possession of alcohol, those individuals could face fines and end up in court.

Preliminary data in 2019 indicates 40% of crash fatalities in North Dakota are alcohol-related.

Consuming alcohol underage is illegal and choosing to drive while under the influence can result in a lifetime of consequences. It is vital underage drivers understand the importance of taking personal responsibility and refraining from this risk-taking behavior,” says Stutsman County Sheriff Chad Kaiser.

Alcohol and drug-related crashes are 100% preventable. Many lives would be saved in North Dakota each year if every driver consistently makes the choice to always drive sober, designate a sober driver, or use a ride-hailing service.

This campaign is part of the Vision Zero strategy to eliminate motor vehicle crash fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roads.

Visit the North Dakota Crash Memorial wall to view memorials built on the hope of preventing another death on North Dakota roads.