The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), in partnership with the Louisiana’s Destination Zero Deaths (DZD) team, is reminding area residents to 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' this holiday season. State and local law enforcement officials are looking for drunk drivers, with a heightened awareness beginning December 16 and continuing through the New Year.

“Our officers will be watching for drivers who have chosen to break the law and drive while intoxicated,” said NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison. “We will watch motorists closely and there will be no excuses for drivers who are behind the wheel and under the influence. The New Orleans Police Department will do everything possible to keep our roads safe and we will have zero tolerance for drunk driving.”

In December 2015, 840 people died as a result of drunk driving crashes nationwide, including three deaths in Louisiana. The Christmas and New Year’s Eve time period resulted in 579 crashes and 14 deaths. A total of 43 percent of the crashes involved alcohol.

“If you choose to drive impaired, not only will you risk your safety and that of your passengers and fellow drivers, you will also face the legal consequences,” added Harrison. “But the ultimate consequence of driving under the influence is causing a traffic crash that injures or kills someone, so we are encouraging our residents and visitors to find a safer way to travel during the holidays.”

Convicted drunk drivers face potential jail time, loss of their driver’s license, and higher insurance premiums, so NOPD reminds residents to 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.'