Officers from the Beloit Police Department will be participating in the Rock County Impaired Driving Enforcement Task Force on Saturday, March 17, and Friday, March 23.
During this additional enforcement, the Beloit Police Department will have more officers on patrol to discourage people from driving while impaired. The Beloit Police Department will have zero tolerance for driving under the influence, open intoxicants, seatbelt violations and improper use of child safety restraints.
“By choosing to get behind the wheel while impaired, drivers are putting the lives of everyone around them at risk,” said Sgt. Christian Dalton. “Our goal is to reduce the number of impaired drivers in Beloit and send the message that driving under the influence is never acceptable. We want to see each and every person get home safely each and every day.”
Driving under the influence includes the use of alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medication. The Beloit Police Department suggests all motorists take steps to protect themselves and others:
Ensure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up – every day, every trip. Watch your speed, be patient and alert.
If you plan to use any alcohol, drugs or prescription medication that will impair your driving, choose a sober designated driver.
If you’re feeling buzzed, you likely are over the 0.08 BAC limit and should not drive.Take public transit, a taxicab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
The Wisconsin DOT offers a free Drive Sober mobile app that includes a blood alcohol estimator, designated driver selector, and find-a-ride feature that uses a smart phone’s GPS to locate alternative transportation.
Some taverns and restaurants have programs to provide patrons with a safe ride home. Visit www.tlw.org/ and click on Safe Ride.
Report impaired drivers to law enforcement by calling 911. Provide as much detail as possible on the driver, vehicle, and location.
The Rock County Impaired Driving Enforcement Task Force includes the Rock County Sheriff’s Department and the Janesville, Town of Beloit and City of Beloit police departments. Funding for the special enforcement periods is provided via a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
