The Washington State Patrol will be participating in the Washington Traffic Safety Commission – Drive Hammered-Get Nailed campaign with extra DUI enforcement patrols throughout the state until Sept. 3.
Nationally, alcohol driving fatalities are rising. During 2006, 17,941 Americans died in alcohol-related traffic collisions, compared to 15,172 during 2005, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In Washington state, there were 3,350 drinking driver involved crashes; 229 of those were fatal crashes which resulted in 252 deaths.
“Getting impaired drivers off our roads is a top priority for the WSP,” said Chief John R. Batiste. “We will continue to enforce impaired driving laws, but stricter laws and enforcement can only go so far to get dangerous drivers off the road. We need your assistance in order to successfully enforce and educate everyone out there.”
In King County, also known as District 2, additional troopers will be working overtime on different days within the emphasis period. They will be focusing on impaired drivers throughout the district. Contact trooper Jeff Merrill at 425-766-0812 for more information. Throughout Snohomish Counties, or District 7, 60 additional troopers will be working overtime on different days within the emphasis period. Those with questions may contact trooper Kirk Rudeen at 425-508-0793.
Drivers are reminded that:
•If you or one of your friends/family members have been drinking, don’t drive, use a designated driver; call a friend, a taxi or a tow truck to get home. While this may be inconvenient, it could save a life.
•If you are on the road and come across someone who you suspect might be under the influence, immediately call 911 and report it (if it is safe for you to do so). If an officer is in the area, they will be able to stop the car before it has the chance to cause harm to someone else.
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