The Washington State Patrol is joining 10 other western states’ law enforcement agencies with emphasis patrols over the New Year’s holiday.
The Western States Traffic Safety Coalition will initiate a special effort this New Year’s Eve to ensure dangerous driver behaviors don’t result in the loss of life and injury due to collisions on state roadways.
The coalition is made up of 11 states that include the Arizona Department of Public Safety, California Highway Patrol, Colorado State Patrol, Idaho State Police, Montana Highway Patrol, Nevada Highway Patrol, Oregon State Police, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Utah Highway Patrol, Washington State Patrol and the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
“We enjoy the opportunity to work with our neighbors of the west to give a unified message to the traveling public: slow down. Drive sober and pay attention,” Washington State Patrol Chief John R. Batiste said.
“And know that law enforcement works together and will always do what is necessary to keep dangerous drivers off our roads and keep you safe during the holidays.”
This New Year’s Eve emphasis on impaired driving will be the third joint initiative in recent years.
“We receive constant feedback from Washingtonians that underscores the public’s demand that law enforcement strictly enforce laws that protect our loved ones and the traveling public,” Batiste said.
Last year, between Christmas and New Year’s Day, the Washington State Patrol made 359 arrests for alleged impaired driving.
