MURFREESBORO, TN - As the holiday season approaches, the Murfreesboro Police Department (MPD) is actively engaging in the "Booze It and Lose It" initiative in partnership with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO). This campaign, running from December 13, 2024, to January 1, 2025, is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over mobilization. It aims to reduce impaired driving incidents nationwide during this festive period.
Recent statistics from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security are alarming, revealing that in the Nashville–Murfreesboro–Franklin area, one in four fatal crashes over the past year involved a DUI driver. Additionally, one in six serious injury crashes from November 1, 2023, to October 31, 2024, also involved an impaired driver.
“The holidays are a time for celebration, but they should also be a time for safety,” emphasized Lt. Zachary Ferrell, Commander of the Fatal Accident Crash Team. “Driving under the influence puts everyone at risk, and we’re committed to keeping our roadways safe.”
To tackle these challenges, MPD will focus on saturation patrols targeting impaired and dangerous driving behaviors. Collaborating with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, the increased traffic enforcement aims to create safer roads throughout the county.
Lt. Ferrell continued, “Our goal is to be vigilant in keeping the roads of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County safe. Don’t drink and drive—designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service. Plan ahead, celebrate responsibly, and always make the right choice.”
The key message is clear: If you feel different, you drive differently. The MPD urges the community to avoid taking risks and to work together in making this holiday season safe and joyful for everyone.
