The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign for the holiday season. The goal is straightforward, reduce impaired driving and push U.S. road fatalities even lower after a notable decline this year. From December 12 through New Year’s Day, police across the country will increase patrols and visibility, backed by a broad media campaign on television, radio and digital platforms.

Alcohol impaired driving continues to be a major cause of fatal crashes in the United States, especially during the holidays. In 2023, 12,429 people died in crashes involving an impaired driver, which equals nearly one third of all traffic deaths that year. Men aged 21 to 34 made up the largest share of impaired drivers in fatal crashes, and in 2023 one person died every 42 minutes because someone chose to drive under the influence. Early NHTSA estimates for 2025 show progress, with deaths down by about 6.4 percent compared to 2024 despite Americans driving billions more miles.

This year’s campaign was unveiled at District E in Washington, D.C. together with law enforcement, advocates and partners, including Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Alongside Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, NHTSA is also running Drive High, Get a DUI to highlight the risks of cannabis and other drugs behind the wheel. The agency’s message is simple, plan ahead, use a sober driver or ride service, and never drive after drinking or using drugs.

Find more from NHTSA (USA, December 2025)