The Washington Traffic Safety Commission announced today a joint initiative between state and local law enforcement agencies and the name speaks for itself: Drive Hammered, Get Nailed.
Extra police patrols targeting drunk drivers will begin on Thanksgiving, Nov. 25, and run through Jan. 2, according to a news release.
“In Washington, impaired driving is still the most frequent contributing factor in deadly collisions. During this time of year with holiday parties and celebrations, we urge everyone to plan ahead and choose a safe ride home,” said Lowell Porter, the director of the WTSC.
In 2009, more than 41,000 people were charged with DUI.
Here are the numbers for the past five years:
2005 — 41,872
2006 — 42,029
2007 — 41,569
2008 — 39,455
2009 — 41,006
The DUI emphasis is borne out of a partnership between the WTSC, the Clark County Target Zero Traffic Safety Task Force and other local and statewide law enforcement agencies.
Rather than driving drunk, partygoers are encouraged to designate a sober driver or take a taxi, according to the release.