Labor Day drive sober crackdown begins, SPD launching checkpoints

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Labor Day weekend is one of the most dangerous times on Louisiana roads. Law enforcement is stepping up efforts to keep drunk and drug-impaired drivers off the streets.

Shreveport police and the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission are teaming up to save lives with the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

“Well, we’re gonna maintain high visibility on our major thoroughfares,” said Cpl. Chris Bordelon. “We are seeing some narcotics-related impairment.”

Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Greg Fischer said the Labor Day crackdown is the longest of the year.

“It hovers around 30% of all fatal crashes involve alcohol or drugs,” said Fischer.

According to Fischer, between 2017 and 2021, 38 people died in Labor Day weekend crashes, with more than half involving alcohol.

He says the most common victims are men aged 18 to 30.

Shreveport police say with designated drivers and ride apps, there’s no reason to take the risk.

The campaign runs from August 11 through September 1, with officers out enforcing the law.