Kansas Cracks Down on Impaired Driving Ahead of Labor Day

KDOT and Law Enforcement Launch "Drive High, Get a DUI" Campaign

As summer draws to a close, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), in partnership with the Drive To Zero Coalition and law enforcement agencies across the state, is intensifying efforts to combat impaired driving. This Labor Day holiday, Kansans are being urged to think twice before getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The "If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DUI" safety campaign is set to run from August 14 through September 2. This initiative aims to reduce the number of impaired driving incidents, which have claimed too many lives in Kansas. In 2023 alone, 67 people lost their lives in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, according to KDOT. Although this represents a decrease from the 95 deaths in 2022, the number of serious injuries in alcohol-related crashes has unfortunately risen.

"Alcohol is the main impairing substance people think of while driving, but illegal recreational drugs, such as marijuana, are just as dangerous," said Gary Herman, KDOT Behavioral Safety Manager. "Driving high or drunk can still lead to a DUI, or worse."

The consequences of impaired driving are severe. Those convicted face stiff penalties, significant financial burdens, and potential jail time. To avoid these outcomes, KDOT and law enforcement are urging drivers to take proactive steps: designate a sober driver, use rideshare services, take public transportation, or simply stay home if they are impaired.

The Drive To Zero Coalition is actively spreading the word about this education and enforcement campaign to reduce impaired driving crashes and fatalities. A news conference held in Lawrence earlier today marked the official kickoff of this safe driving initiative.

"The bottom line is if you are impaired, you should not be driving," Herman emphasized. "You place yourself, your occupants, and anyone else you encounter on the road at risk. Every DUI victim is someone’s loved one."

As Labor Day approaches, KDOT and its partners hope that this heightened enforcement and public awareness will lead to safer roads across Kansas, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the holiday responsibly and without tragedy.