The calendar year 2020 was one of the deadliest years in Washington from driving under the influence-related crashes
On Wednesday (Dec. 15), law enforcement agencies in Southwest Washington kicked off additional holiday season DUI patrols.
Participating local agencies include:
• Battle Ground Police Department
• Clark County Sheriff’s Office
• Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency
• Ridgefield Police Department
• Vancouver Police Department
• Washington State Patrol
The calendar year 2020 was one of the deadliest years in Washington from driving under the influence (DUI)-related crashes, despite fewer drivers on the road, according to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC). Preliminary data for 2021 also indicates an increase in deaths this year from DUIs. As Washington prepares to celebrate the holiday season, WTSC and Target Zero, are calling on drivers to be sober and for everyone to intervene to prevent someone from driving impaired.
“Be a hero this Holiday Season by pledging to plan ahead and intervening.” said Jesamie Peters, Target Zero manager for Clark & Skamania Counties. “In Washington our goal is ZERO fatal and serious injury crashes, take the pledge Washingtonians.”
Pledge to ALWAYS have a plan, whether you are hosting, driving, or riding.
- Plan a safe and 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
- Hosts, make sure to remind your guests to have sober ride home, or offer a space for them to stay
- If you see an impaired driver, call 9-1-1
- Always wear your seatbelt, it is your best protection against impaired drivers
While most adults in Washington do not drive under the influence, over 50% of all fatal crashes are due to driving under the influence. WTSC statistics show that 2020 had the highest number of polydrug drivers in fatal crashes in state history. 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’s help: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
For more information go to December 2021 Impaired Driving Campaign – WTSC Partners.
