DUI Crackdown for End of Summer, Labor Day Weekend

SACRAMENTO, CALIF., Aug. 14, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Law enforcement agencies throughout California and the nation will be stepping up DUI enforcement before and during the Labor Day holiday, from August 16 through Sept. 2. During the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign, there will be an increase in law enforcement presence on the roads and additional checkpoints throughout the state. Those caught driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will be arrested. The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and California Highway Patrol (CHP) are reminding motorists to plan ahead by designating a sober driver.
   
"As people get together to celebrate the holiday weekend, it is important that they remain responsible behind the wheel," said OTS Director Christopher J. Murphy. "Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous. California is increasing enforcement during the holiday to ensure that those who choose to drive while impaired will be caught and arrested."

Statistics show that, on average, two people die every day in California in an impaired driving collision, and many times that are seriously injured.  Law enforcement continues to work diligently to remove impaired drivers from the state's roadways before they injure or kill someone.

"Our education and enforcement efforts play a key role in keeping the motoring public safe," said California Highway Patrol Commissioner Joe Farrow.  "With the public's cooperation and commitment to abstain from drinking and driving, lives will be saved.  Those who make the poor choice to drive impaired should be prepared to face the consequences."

The CHP, Avoid DUI Task Forces and more than 115 local police departments across the state will be setting up DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols to deter potential impaired drivers and take those under the influence off the road. Specially trained officers will be on hand to detect drivers under the influence of alcohol as well as legal or illegal drugs.  In 2011, 774 California drivers with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes. A first-time DUI conviction can cost up to $10,000 in fines, legal fees, and insurance increases.

For more information on all OTS efforts and the Avoid campaign, visit us at www.ots.ca.gov. For additional updates and information, find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/CaliforniaOTS or follow us on Twitter @OTS_CA.