The 19th annual Checkpoint Strikeforce campaign and enforcement effort is now underway on Virginia’s roads in an effort to curb alcohol-related traffic fatalities throughout the holiday travel season.

According to figures from the state Department of Motor Vehicles, 253 individuals died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes on Virginia’s roadways through Dec. 8, 2020, compared to 249 alcohol-related traffic fatalities recorded during the same period in 2019. During last year’s Thanksgiving to New Year’s holiday period, nearly one-third, or 32 percent, of all traffic deaths in Virginia involved drunk drivers.

“At every stage of this pandemic, Virginians have worked together to keep each other safe, and this holiday season is no different,” said Gov. Ralph Northam. “While your travel plans may look different this year it is important to keep your guard up, even if you are just making short trips near home. If you plan to drink, make sure you have a sober ride—Virginia has zero toler...