CONCORD, New Hampshire – Beginning tomorrow and continuing throughout the summer, more than 90 law enforcement agencies throughout New Hampshire will participate in a coordinated enforcement initiative targeting drivers who are impaired. The additional enforcement patrols are funded through grants from the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety (NHOHS).
Impaired driving can be a dangerous and potentially deadly decision.
- In 2021, there were 118 people killed in crashes on New Hampshire roads. Of those crashes, 69 percent were alcohol and/or drug-related.
- From 2015-2021, 822 people died in crashes in New Hampshire. Of those 822 people, 510 (62%) were victims of an alcohol and/or drug-related crash.
- From 2015-2021, 336 of 1,096 drivers involved in deadly crashes on New Hampshire roads tested positive for drugs.
The lives of innocent passengers and other drivers are regularly claimed by those who operate impaired. However, the total number of lives impacted by alcohol and/or drug-related deadly crashes is impossible to measure. Many family members, friends and other grieving loved ones are often left behind.
“One wrong decision could have lifelong consequences for you and your loved ones,” said New Hampshire State Police Lt. Christopher Storm. “Drivers should be aware of the legal, financial, and emotional costs that come with a DWI conviction. We encourage drivers to plan for a night out and consider alternative options to get home safely, such as using a designated driver, rideshare apps or public transportation.”
In addition to local and county law enforcement agencies, the New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Division of State Police and the New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Division of Enforcement and Licensing will participate in the effort.
“To complement this initiative, our investigators will conduct premise inspections at licensed establishments in an effort to educate our licensees about the dangers of overservice, and in turn deter and prevent intoxicated drivers from getting on the road,” said Chief Mark Armaganian of the New Hampshire Liquor Commission.
“New Hampshire has some of the most aggressive laws in the country to fight impaired drivers, and the law enforcement community will use these tools to the fullest extent,” said Chief Adam Marsh of the Gorham Police Department.