RALEIGH, N.C. (NCN News) — As Labor Day approaches, law enforcement agencies and traffic safety professionals across North Carolina are reminding drivers to celebrate responsibly and plan for a safe ride home.
The N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program gathered with officials in Fayetteville to announce the launch of the upcoming Labor Day Booze It & Lose It campaign.
The statewide enforcement initiative, which runs from Aug. 31 through Sep. 13, uses amplified outreach and enforcement efforts to keep impaired drivers off the road during one of the busiest and most dangerous travel times of the year.
The annual campaign brings awareness to the dangers associated with driving while impaired by drugs and alcohol, which plays a major role in vehicle-related deaths.
In 2025, 1,528 people were killed in crashes on North Carolina roadways, including 378 deaths in alcohol-related crashes. The goal of the Labor Day enforcement period is simple: prevent impaired driving and help everyone get home safely.
“We are urging everyone to plan ahead and choose a sober ride home from any celebration involving alcohol or other impairing substances,” said NCGHSP Director Mark Ezzell in a press release. “Our partners in law enforcement will be out in force to keep roads safe and stop those who put others at risk. Safety remains our number one priority.”
Drivers who plan to drink should arrange a sober ride before heading out. Options include designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service or taxi, taking public transportation, or staying overnight at a friend’s or family member’s home.