As Labor Day signals the end of summer for many, Iowa’s roadways are anticipating heavier than normal traffic through the weekend. To keep drivers and pedestrians safe this time of year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, along with local law enforcement are participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign.

The campaign officially kicked off in the middle of August, however an increased emphasis is placed on Labor Day weekend. According to the National Safety Council, during the 2023 holiday period, 495 crash fatalities were reported nationwide. 

According to the Iowa DOT, the state has had 183 traffic fatalities so far this year. August has had 32 traffic fatalities as of Wednesday, the highest figure for any month so far in 2025.

Anyone planning on celebrating this Labor Day weekend is urged to designate a sober driver if alcohol is involved.