TOPEKA — Motorists in Kansas will see and hear numerous Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving safety messages the week of the 4th of July holiday to stress the importance of never drinking and driving.

The Kansas Department of Transportation, the Drive To Zero (DTZ) Coalition and local law enforcement agencies are joining together in this effort. High intensity enforcement will occur over the holiday week along with safety reminders from July 1-7.

Impaired driving is both illegal and dangerous. “Besides being illegal, driving impaired puts anyone in your vehicle or your path at risk for a crash resulting in serious injury or death,” said KDOT Behavioral Safety Manager Gary Herman. “And with many Independence Day activities taking place at night, impaired drivers increase the risks even more.”

According to KDOT, 65 people lost their lives in 2,140 alcohol-related crashes recorded in 2023. This marks a decrease from 2022, when 95 alcohol-related fatalities occurred.

Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above Kansas’ limit of .08% are considered alcohol-impaired by law. However, a small amount of alcohol is considered buzzed driving because it can affect a person’s ability to drive safely.

“Simply planning ahead by designating a sober driver can be the difference in avoiding a DUI and potential jail time, let alone placing lives in jeopardy,” Herman said.

The DTZ Coalition also reminds all motorists to buckle up every trip, every time. Learn more about the Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving Campaigns and anti-impaired driving resources by visiting  https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/safety-topics/drunk-driving.