Law enforcement agencies across the state are participating in extra patrols aimed at getting DUI drivers off the roads over this holiday season from Thursday through Jan. 1.
In Clallam and Jefferson counties, the Port Angeles, Port Townsend and Sequim police departments; the Clallam and Jefferson county sheriff’s offices; and the State Patrol will participate in the campaign with the support of the Clallam and Jefferson Regional Target Zero Traffic Safety Task Force.
“The Washington Traffic Safety Commission funds these extra patrols because we want every family to enjoy the holidays with their loved ones,” said Darrin Grondel, commission director.
“Unfortunately, we are very aware that deadly traffic crashes can turn holiday dreams into nightmares.”
Grondel said that statistics show an increase in traffic deaths involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
State statistics through 2015 show an increase over 2014 in both fatal crashes and crashes involving an impaired driver.
In 2015, 516 fatal crashes led to the deaths of 568 people, according to the commission’s data.
That was an increase from 2014, in which 429 crashes caused the deaths of 462 people.
It was also the first time since 2008 that the number of fatal crashes rose above 482.
Of those, impaired drivers were involved in 234 fatal crashes in 2015 compared to 208 impaired drivers in 2014.
Most of the fatal crashes were in the Interstate 5 corridor although some were on the North Olympic Peninsula.
“We are alarmed at recent increases in traffic deaths involving DUI, especially among drivers who test positive for two or more drugs, or both alcohol and other drugs,” Grondel said.
“Our agency is charged with examining every detail of every deadly crash. When we look at this data, we have to wonder why we are seeing so many deadly crashes where drivers are mixing other drugs with alcohol.”
Grondel said that nearly three times as many drivers involved in deadly DUI crashes had multiple substances in their bodies as those with only alcohol or a single drug.
“So as we travel this season, I would like to remind Washingtonians that mixing alcohol, marijuana and other drugs with driving can have devastating consequences.
“Give the gift of life this holiday season. Talk to your friends and family. Ensure they drive sober or find an alternative ride.”
For more information, visit www.targetzero.com.
