The CDC conducted a study measuring alcohol-involved deaths in traffic accidents between 2003 and 2012. It found that Mississippians aged 21 and 31 were nearly twice as likely to be killed by drunk drivers when they are adjusted for their population. Melinda McGrath (executive director of the Department of Transportation) stated that Labor Day weekend is an opportunity for Mississippians to spend time with their loved ones. “However, when you make your Labor Day plans, make sure to designate someone in advance for your safety as well as the safety of others.” With football season starting and fans travelling across the state to watch the games, there could be serious danger on Mississippi’s roads. Highway Patrol Troop D, Corporal Tony Dunn, said that “more than likely” there will be driver license checkpoints set up in each district to verify drivers have their licenses, check for insurance, and check for alcohol impairment. “We intend to work hand in hand to ensure everyone is safe,” Dunn stated. According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation 26 percent of traffic fatalities in Mississippi were caused by drunk drivers. According to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, 162 people died and 957 were hurt in crashes involving alcohol in 2015. The data shows that 219 people were also injured in crashes involving impaired drivers of substances other than alcohol. Master Sergeant Criss Turnereed, Highway Patrol Troop G, Starkville said that there will be many overtime enforcement details this weekend. “This will allow us to have more manpower in terms of enforcement and coverage. Each state will have its own troopers assigned to traffic and travel areas. They will be present there, being seen and enforcing law.” Although there was a decrease in fatal car crashes over the past two decades, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration found little to no change in crashes involving drunk drivers between 2005-2014. It is illegal in the United States to drive with blood alcohol levels above 0.08. The driver’s license will be suspended for 90 days after a first offense in Mississippi of driving while under the influence of alcohol. There is no possibility of privileges being restored during that period. All convicted Mississippi offenders must install ignition interlocks. The ignition interlock system works in the same way as a breathalyzer and requires drivers to have a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or less to turn on the engine. Only 1.2 percent of Mississippians reported having been drinking after driving, which is a significant decrease from the national average of 1.9 percent. Turnipseed stated that there will be a lot of troopers working tomorrow’s instate football game. These areas are very busy and there is a lot of traffic. This weekend coincides with the opening of football season. We will do almost the same thing every holiday weekend. We expect lots of traffic and we will manage it. To support this important work, you can make a regular donation to us today as part of the Spring Member Drive.