Law enforcement agencies from across the state will be cracking down on drunken and distracted driving from now through Labor Day.

The annual enforcement campaign will see increased patrols, checkpoints and high law enforcement visibility.

The crackdown started on Friday and will last through Monday, Sept. 5. The campaign is sponsored by STOP-DWI NY and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Law enforcement agencies from Oneida, Madison and Herkimer counties will be involved.

“It’s been a great summer filled with beautiful weather, gatherings with family and friends and the return of several signature Oneida County events,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente.

“With Labor Day fast approaching, our law enforcement agencies will be heavily patrolling our roadways to make sure the season draws to a close safely. Let’s enjoy the rest of the summer free from the tragedies that stem from impaired and distracted driving.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2020 that involved an alcohol-impaired driver. Among those fatalities, 67% were in crashes in which at least one driver had a blood alcohol level of 0.15% or higher.

On average, more than 10,000 people were killed each year from 2018 to 2020, and one person was killed in an alcohol-impaired driving crash every 45 minutes in 2020, officials said.

Research done by NHTSA shows that programs like a high visibility engagement campaign, which publicize and enforce the consequences of impaired driving, lead to reductions in fatalities by reducing the incidence of impaired driving.

“Drunk driving is not acceptable behavior, especially when there are so many safe alternatives to get you home safely,” said Madison County STOP-DWI Coordinator Matthew White.

The state holds these crackdowns during all major holiday weekends throughout the year, including the Super Bowl.