More than 300 law enforcement agencies statewide will take drunk drivers off the road as part of the extra DWI enforcement campaign Aug. 19 — Sept. 5. The idea is to get drivers to plan ahead as summer winds down.
In the last five years, August was the worst month for DWI offenders, averaging 2,509 arrests, followed by March (2,399) and July (2,354). On average, drunk driving will be a contributing factor in one fatality, and alcohol will be involved in two life-changing injuries during the Labor Day holiday period.
Encouraging downward trend in DWI arrests
Minnesotans can stop themselves and others from getting behind the wheel impaired. An increasing number of motorists are making smart choices behind the wheel with DWI arrests declining by 40 percent in the last 10 years.
“Nothing beats hanging out with friends and family during a Minnesota summer, but it’s a problem when we think we’re okay to drive after having a few drinks,” said Donna Berger, Office of Traffic Safety director. “Celebrate over Labor Day weekend but have a plan for yourself and others before anybody gets behind the wheel. Friends don’t let friends drink and drive.”
The toll of drunk driving
Each year, an average of 253 life-changing injuries involve alcohol-related crashes.
In the last five years (2011–2015), 17 percent of all fatal crashes in Minnesota during the Labor Day holiday period were drunk-driving-related.
In the same five-year span, there were 462 drunk-driving-related traffic deaths in Minnesota.
DWI consequences
A DWI offense can result in loss of license for up to a year, thousands of dollars in costs and possible jail time. Repeat DWI offenders, as well as first-time offenders arrested at 0.16 and above alcohol-concentration level, must use ignition interlock in order to regain legal driving privileges or face at least one year without a driver’s license. Offenders with three or more offenses are required to use interlock for three to six years, or they will never regain driving privileges.
Commit to a sober ride
Plan for a safe ride — designate a sober driver, use a cab/public transportation or stay at the location of the celebration.
Speak Up – Offer to be a designated driver or be available to pick up a loved one anytime, anywhere.
Buckle up — the best defense against a drunk driver.
Report drunk driving — call 911 when witnessing impaired driving behavior. Be prepared to provide location, license plate number and observed dangerous behavior.
You must log in to continue reading. Log in or subscribe today.