The hundreds of traffic deaths and injuries that happen each year in Washington state due to impaired driving crashes are 100 percent preventable

VANCOUVER – On May 5 & 6, Southwest Washington will have additional officers conducting DUI enforcement to help keep roadways safer this Cinco De Mayo and in honor of the lives lost on Washington roadways.  

Before the party starts, you need a plan for a safe ride home. Drunk-you will thank you. For that matter, so will hungover-you. The alternative is risking a DUI, up to a year in jail, a $5,000 fine, a suspended license, an ignition interlock device installed in your car, legal bills … and lots of uncomfortable conversations.  

The hundreds of traffic deaths and injuries that happen each year in Washington state due to impaired driving crashes are 100 percent preventable. If you drive, drive sober and prevent impairment-related deaths on our roadways.

In Washington, the goal is to have zero people in your household involved in a serious or fatal crash. Anyone can be a hero, if you celebrate, celebrate responsibly, and pledge to always have a plan, whether you are hosting, driving, or riding. How many impaired driving-related deaths are acceptable for your family? Zero. #TARGETZERO #ARRIVEALIVE

• Before celebrating PLAN, a safe and 100 percent sober ride home 
• INTERVENE, don’t let someone get behind the wheel if they have used alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs 
• Offer to be a DESIGNATED DRIVER 
• If you see an impaired driver, call 9-1-1 
• Always wear your SEAT BELT, it is your best protection against impaired drivers 

While most adults in Washington do not drive under the influence, over 50 percent of all fatal crashes are due to driving under the influence. Take action to keep our families and friends safe. If you are driving and see a suspected impaired driver, call 9-1-1. If you or someone you know struggles with substance abuse, there is help: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Join us for the Walk Like Madd event on May 6, 2023. 

Target Zero officials remind the public:

 *Most of us don’t drive impaired. We take responsibility and give our keys to someone before we party. 

*When there’s a chance to prevent someone from driving impaired, most Washingtonians (81 percent) will intervene and take action.’’  

For more information go to https://wadrivetozero.com/dui  

Information provided by Target Zero.