PSA: Drive sober on Labor Day

CRYSTAL FALLS — Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends on the road. As families and friends come together from all over Michigan to enjoy this Labor Day Weekend, Iron County Sheriff Mark Valesano urges drivers to be smart -- buckle up and do not drive impaired. Valesano said deputies will be working hard during the Labor Day Weekend in Iron County to stop impaired driving and enforce Michigan’s seat belt law.

During this high traffic time, it is especially important for travelers to wear their seat belts and refrain from using any substances which impair driving. Last year close to 42% of Michigan roadway fatalities involved alcohol and/or drugs. 

“Drivers who operate vehicles while they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol cost Michigan residents millions of dollars each year in lost time, lost property, and most importantly, lost lives,” Valesano said. “The greatest tragedy is that deaths due to impaired driving are preventable – these are not accidents. 

“In the past, the Labor Day holiday weekend has been one of the deadliest times of the year for impaired-driving fatalities. As we gather with friends and family, let’s make sure we all drive sober and stay safe.”