July 4th is a time for rejoicing for the freedoms that we have, visiting family and friends, outdoor BBQ's, and partying. This also can mean drinking. Drinking and driving can by a dangerous combination.
Snohomish County law enforcement is trying to extend a record- another year with no DUI traffic fatalities. Snohomish County has not had a DUI traffic death on this holiday since 1997.
To continue the record, law enforcement agencies will have extra patrols looking for drunken drivers. See the following press release:
http://www.co.snohomish.wa.us/documents/Departments/Executive/News/NR_DUIPatrols6.24.10.pdf
Remember, if you drink, don't drive. If your friend is drinking, offer to take him/her a ride home. And you have heard this before, a designated driver is always in order.
DUI– You Can Help
Nationwide, drunk and drugged driving leads to one death every 33 minutes, one injury every two minutes and 1.5 million arrests every year. Local law enforcement agencies frequently conduct emphasis patrols looking for drunk drivers during the holidays, St Patrick’s day, New Years Eve and other periods when people often may drink too much then try to drive.
You can help by being alert for drunk drivers and reporting them to 911.
Look for erratic driving- weaving on the road, inability to stay in the lane, alternately speeding then slowing down.
When you call, give:
• Vehicle description
• License #
• Nearest cross street
• Direction of travel
Be careful when using your cell phone and driving. Be sure to use a handsfree device. If the driver is speeding, don’t speed with them! It doesn’t do any good to endanger other lives in a chase. Leave chasing bad guys to the cops.
Your best defense against a drunk driver on the road is:
• To wear your safety belt, make sure any children in the car are in child safety seats.
• Never ride in a car operated by someone who has been drinking- call a cab or ask a friend to drive you home.
• Report drunk drivers to law enforcement from a cell phone or pay phone.
• Keep a safe distance from anyone driving erratically.
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