Gov. Braun urges Hoosiers to “Drive Sober or Don’t Drive” as State Police launch C.A.R.E. Blitz to target impaired Driving

As Hoosiers prepare to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day, Indiana Governor Mike Braun and the Indiana State Police (ISP) are urging the public to make safety a priority throughout the holiday weekend.

With millions of Americans expected to travel and celebrations taking place across Indiana, officials are highlighting the increased risks that come with holiday travel—particularly impaired driving.

“Hoosiers are looking forward to celebrating America 250 with friends and family, but holiday weekends bring added hazards that everyone needs to be aware of,” said Gov. Braun. “If you’re drinking this weekend, don’t drive. It’s a risk not only to yourself but to families on the road.”

Last year, 1,865 crashes occurred statewide over the Fourth of July holiday period, resulting in 620 injuries and 23 lives lost. Of those crashes, 92 involved alcohol or drugs.

The Indiana State Police is participating in the statewide Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) blitz, coordinating with law enforcement partners across Indiana. The initiative includes additional patrols focused on crash‑causing behaviors such as speeding, violating the hands‑free law, unsafe lane movement, and following too closely. A major component of the enforcement effort is identifying and removing impaired and dangerous drivers from Indiana roadways.

AAA projects that nearly 62 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles over the holiday weekend. With this increased volume, officials are urging Hoosiers to follow life‑saving practices:

• Plan ahead and designate a sober driver before celebrations begin.
• Intervene if someone attempts to drive after drinking.
• Use taxis, ride‑sharing services, or sober friends for transportation.
• Always buckle up — your seat belt is the best defense against an impaired driver.
• Report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911 immediately.

As the state comes together to celebrate the nation’s semiquincentennial, officials emphasize that drunk driving is 100% preventable.