Proctor Journal

EXTRA DWI ENFORCEMENT DECLARED FOR THE 4TH

2008: 5 of 8 Traffic Deaths were Alcohol-Related

ST. PAUL — Following one of the deadliest Memorial Day holiday weekends ever, the

Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reinforcing the need for motorists to drive

belted, safe and sober during the Independence Day weekend. Last year alcohol-

related crashes accounted for five of the eight motorists killed surrounding the

holiday. Another 1,819 motorists were arrested for DWI.

To combat impaired driving, Operation NightCAP (nighttime concentrated alcohol

patrol) enhanced DWI enforcement efforts will be conducted during the 4th of July

weekend. DWI patrols will ramp up in Anoka, Blue Earth, Crow Wing, Dakota,

Hennepin, Itasca, Ramsey, Rice, St. Louis, Sherburne, Stearns, Washington and

Wright counties.

In June, NightCAP enforcement campaigns resulted in 2,862 vehicle stops, 183 DWI

arrests and 138 seat belt citations. At mid-year, the state has recorded 183 deaths,

compared to 188 at this time last year.

“Unfortunately, every holiday weekend has the potential to be a tragic one on

Minnesota roads,” says State Patrol Lt. Matt Langer. “Understanding the importance

of driving safe, smart and sober is the simple answer to stopping these preventable

deaths and injuries.”

DPS reminds motorists to follow these safe driving tips:

§ Buckle up — Seat belts are the best defense in case of a crash and on roads

plagued with speeding, distracted and impaired drivers. The state’s primary seat

belt law is in effect, meaning every driver and all passengers — even in the back —

must be belted. Law enforcement can stop a vehicle if anyone in a vehicle is not

belted.

§ Pay attention — Stay focused on driving, especially as more vehicles will be on

the road. Delegate control of music, air conditioning and phones to passengers.

§ Drive at safe speeds — Determine enough travel time in advance to avoid the

urge to speed.

§ Use a designated driver — If you plan on drinking, plan on a safe and sober

ride.

§ Drive well-rested — Use rest-stops, rotate drivers and be patient.

§ Fireworks, legal or illegal, transported in a vehicle are potentially hazardous

in the case of a crash or if accidentally ignited.

§ Move over for emergency responders and reduce speeds in work zones.