The Iowa State Patrol announced intensified enforcement efforts this Labor Day weekend, especially during nighttime hours, to target drinking drivers. Nearly 10,000 other law enforcement agencies will also participate in this year's nationwide campaign: Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.

Iowa reported 372 traffic fatalities in 2009. This number has been trending downward each year from 450 in 2005. To date, there have been 241 reported traffic deaths this year through August 30, 2010. Last year, ninety-two (24.7%) traffic deaths were reportedly alcohol related.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety notes that violators often face jail time, interlock ignition devices, loss of their driver's licenses, increased insurance rates, court costs, lost time from work and the potential loss of a job or job prospect. When family, friends and co-workers find out, violators can also face tremendous embarrassment and humiliation.

Iowa special Traffic Enforcement Project (sTEP) coordinator Randy Hunefeld reminds Iowa drivers that "if you are over the limit, you will be under arrest."