For Immediate Release

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net

Hull Police Remind Residents to Avoid Driving Impaired During July 4 Holiday

HULL — Chief John Dunn and the Hull Police Department wish to remind residents of the dangers of impaired driving prior to the July 4 holiday, which is traditionally among the deadliest times of the year on American roadways.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are more deaths due to drunk driving crashes around the Fourth of July holiday — between the evening of July 2 and the morning of July 6 — than at any other time throughout the year.

In 2016, 188 people were killed in crashes involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator who was impaired by alcohol. Almost half of those deaths occurred when at least one driver or operator had a BAC of .15 or higher — nearly twice the legal limit.

Individuals who are arrested for operating under the influence face myriad consequences, including:

• Jail time
• Loss of driver’s license and vehicle
• Fines
• Up to $10,000 in attorney fees, plus additional costs beyond fines
• If you kill someone while operating under the influence, you can face manslaughter charges.

“While we want everyone to have a safe and happy Fourth of July there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while impaired,” Chief Dunn. “If you do not have a designated driver, there are ride sharing apps and taxi services that can make sure you get home safely. Don’t put yourself or others at risk by driving impaired.”

The Hull Police Department urges residents to observe the following tips from the NHTSA on getting home safely:

• Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, do not plan on driving.
• Designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride share service to get home safely.
• Take the keys away from individuals who are drunk and are planning to drive.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call local law enforcement.

NHTSA’s mobile app, SaferRide, allows users to call a taxi or a friend and identify their location so they can be picked up safely. Residents who will be drinking during the holiday are also encouraged to use apps like Lyft or Uber in order to call a ride, rather than drive themselves.

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