Expanded Holiday DUI patrols begin Statewide

KTVB.COM

Posted on November 17, 2013 at 4:11 PM

Updated Sunday, Nov 17 at 4:11 PM



BOISE -- Law enforcement agencies around Idaho launched expanded DUI patrols Sunday.

The extra enforcement, in conjunction with education campaigns, is set to run through the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Idaho Transportation Department's Office of Highway Safety made funds available to local police agencies to pay for the expanded patrols.

"ITD's goal is not one death, because every life counts," said Kevin Bechen, with ITD. "We're committed to doing everything we can to help keep families safe and whole."

According to ITD, last year, impaired driving contributed to 1,454 crashes on Idaho's highways and caused 73 fatalities statewide.

Bechen offered the following tips to make this Thanksgiving holiday safer:

• If you plan on consuming alcohol, designate a sober driver before leaving and give that person your keys.
• Call a taxi, sober friend or family member to get you home safely if you are impaired.
• Promptly report drunk drivers to law enforcement.
• Wear your seat belt while in your car or use a helmet and protective gear when on a motorcycle. These are the best defenses against an impaired driver.
• If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take his or her keys and help make other safe travel arrangements.
• Questions? Visit ITD online here and check travel conditions here or dial 5-1-1.