Plan To Imbibe? Don't Drink And Drive

While you're counting down the hours to this weekend's festivities — be it a lazy happy hour at  (featured in this week's restaurant review by Catherine Reynolds: ), a juicy burger washed down with some brews at , or some late night karaoke at

But please keep one thing in mind: If you plan to imbibe, don't drink and drive. 

This should always be the case; however, be extra mindful not to push it this evening, and through September 5.

In an effort to save lives, additional officers will be patrolling for DUI drivers between August 19 and September 5 during King County's annual Drive Hammered, Get Nailed campaign.

Thirty-eight people died in King County in Driving Under the Influence (DUI) crashes last year, according to a statement from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

"This summer, we have unfortunately seen the tragic consequences of DUI crashes in our communities," shared Sgt. Lisa Brouelette of the Kirkland Police Department. "We are here to get unsafe drivers off the road and encourage you to plan for a sober ride home before going out."

During that same two-week period last year, King County officers on routine and extra patrols make 438 DUI arrests.

A new law called went into effect on July 22 this year. With few exceptions, there is now a mandatory 12-hour hold at the towing company before the vehicle can be released. Officers will not have discretion to let a sober friend take over the wheel, or a family member pick up the vehicle at roadside. 

“This new law helps eliminate the danger of drunk drivers getting back into their cars and putting everyone at risk,” said Lowell Porter, Director of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. “Now all drunk drivers face the costs of towing and impound in addition to jail time, losing their driver’s license, and the high cost of a DUI.”

Two dozen local police agencies, including Renton, will join the Washington State Patrol and nearly 10,000 other agencies nationwide for the Drive Hammered, Get Nailed campaign.

For more information about the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, visit www.wtsc.wa.gov.