Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana - As Mardi Gras approaches, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office is intensifying efforts to combat impaired driving through a crackdown supported by grant funding from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission. The campaign, called "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," begins on Friday, February 21, and runs until Tuesday, March 4, which coincides with Mardi Gras Day in 2025.

This initiative is part of a broader partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) aimed at curbing drunk driving and reducing incidents on the road. According to officials, the period leading up to Mardi Gras often sees an increase in alcohol consumption, which can lead to dangerous driving behaviors. The Sheriff's Office emphasizes the importance of responsible driving during this festive season to ensure the safety of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

An undisclosed location in Calcasieu Parish will have a DWI checkpoint on the campaign's first day, February 21. In addition to the checkpoint, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office will deploy increased numbers of deputies throughout the duration of the campaign. These officers will actively patrol the roads, specifically targeting individuals who may be driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.

Impaired driving remains a serious issue, contributing to numerous traffic crashes each year. In Louisiana, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08 percent for drivers over 21, which means that driving with a BAC at or above this level can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and possibly jail time.

Residents are encouraged to take personal responsibility during this festive time, recognizing that the choices made during celebrations can have lasting consequences.