MADD Collaborates with Law Enforcement to Combat Impaired Driving This Labor Day Weekend

MADD's Initiative to Prevent Impaired Driving

As the long-awaited Labor Day weekend approaches, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) is intensifying its efforts to prevent impaired driving through a nationwide initiative called "Saturation Saturday." MADD's local offices from coast to coast are teaming up with law enforcement agencies to implement this impactful program aimed at reducing the number of drunk driving incidents, particularly during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

A Growing Concern

While many eagerly anticipate the holiday festivities, the statistics surrounding drunk driving during this time underscore a severe public health crisis. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), in 2023, there were 511 fatalities related to drunk driving over the Labor Day weekend alone. Shockingly, the number of drunk driving deaths has surged by 33% since 2019, revealing a troubling trend that cannot be ignored.

The Saturation Saturday Push

To combat these alarming figures, MADD's Saturation Saturday will take place on August 23, 2025, involving more than 260 law enforcement departments across 16 states and Puerto Rico. Events will include sobriety checkpoints, ramped-up DUI patrols, and roll call briefings for officers, all designed to enhance road safety and deter impaired driving.

Participating states in this initiative include Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia, among others. Police officers serve on the front lines of this battle, often acting as the first line of defense against impaired drivers. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that sobriety checkpoints can reduce drunk driving deaths by up to 20%.

Voices of Commitment

MADD’s CEO, Stacey D. Stewart, emphasized the far-reaching impact of impaired driving, stating, "Impaired driving affects everyone and is the leading cause of death on our roadways. MADD is committed to supporting equitable and just enforcement efforts to stop this senseless crime. We owe it to one another to make safer choices."

This initiative aligns with the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign spearheaded by NHTSA, which aims to educate the public about the dire consequences of driving under the influence. As Stewart stated, "High-visibility traffic safety enforcement efforts serve as a deterrent to impaired driving crashes and prevent senseless deaths and injuries."

Safer Options are Key

As Labor Day weekend approaches, MADD urges everyone to have a well-thought-out plan to ensure a safe return home after celebrations, whether one is driving, riding along, or hosting guests. The organization stresses the importance of making responsible decisions to prevent tragedies on the highways.

Looking to the Future

In an effort to address this public health crisis more effectively, MADD advocates for the inclusion of passive impaired driving prevention technology in all new vehicles, as mandated by the HALT Drunk Driving Law. This crucial legislation will likely contribute to saving over 10,000 lives annually and will prevent hundreds of thousands of injuries. Until such advancements are realized, however, law enforcement must continue the significant work of keeping impaired drivers off the roads.

About MADD

Founded in 1980, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) has been a leading force in advocating for the end of impaired driving. The organization has successfully reduced drunk driving deaths by over 40%, saving nearly 500,000 lives in the United States. With a dedication to advocacy, MADD collaborates alongside law enforcement to enforce stricter sentencing and laws. The organization also provides free support services to victims and survivors of impaired driving through a 24-Hour Victim Help Line at 1-877-MADD-HELP.

As we head into this pivotal weekend, let's unite in the mission to ensure safer roads for everyone. Take a moment to reflect on your plans and make the responsible choice to drive sober.