EXTRA DUI PATROLS ANNOUNCED FOR CINCO DE MAYO

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May 4, 2012 (San Diego) -- The Avoid the 14 San Diego County DUI Task Force will be deploying DUI saturation patrols on Cinco De Mayo, May 5th from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. in Escondido and around San Diego State University.

Cinco de Mayo is a special opportunity to gather with friends and coworkers for chips, salsa and Margaritas, celebrating California’s rich cultural diversity. It is also a night when dangerous and often deadly outcomes occur because another impaired driver hits the road drunk.

Local venues are planning special reduced rates for drinks creating the probability for even higher numbers of intoxicated drivers for Saturday night. DUI statistics indicate the greatest number of DUI deaths and injuries occur late Saturday night early Sunday morning which is why law enforcement will be out in force as a deterrent.

“There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel after drinking,” said Sheriff Bill Gore. “Everyone, including hosts, local bars and restaurants, must be sure to promote designated sober drivers in advance, before the festivities begin.”

Plan ahead with these tips:

• Arrange rides home for your friends, family, coworkers and yourself before drinking begins

• Identify and provide free nonalcoholic drinks or other promotional items to the Designated Driver

• Cut back on the amount of drinks you plan to bring to the party – and provide plenty of food.

• If you see dangerous driving, Report Drunk Drivers – Call 911!

“In this day and age, there is no excuse for driving drunk,” said Christopher J. Murphy, Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety. “Before heading out for the celebration, just take one minute to designate your sober driver.”

Avoid the 14 DUI Task Force funding is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 


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