Washington law enforcement agencies to conduct DUI emphasis patrol

Law enforcement agencies in Adams County and across Washington state will increase patrols for motorists driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, from Aug. 17 to Sept. 3.

Agencies conduct the emphasis patrol in order to keep drivers safe during what the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) refers to as the deadliest time of the year on the state’s roadways.

WTSC notes that drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs are involved in nearly half of all traffic deaths in the state.

The organization reports 250 people were killed in collisions involving impaired drivers in 2017.

WTSC Director Darrin Grondel is encouraging residents to prevent their friends and family from driving impaired by offering them a ride home or a place to sober up.

Grondel is also asking people to plan in advance of attending or hosting parties involving alcohol, and schedule a sober driver to provide transportation before attending the event.