TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
The Pima
County Sheriff's Department reminds local residents to not drink and drive, and
to be aware of sobriety checkpoints this holiday weekend.
During the
St. Patrick's holiday from 2006 to 2010, more than 700 people across the U.S.
were killed in drunk driving incidents, according to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration.
"When you
are gathering with friends at the local bar or at someone's home, if al;alcohol
is part of the festivities, make sure you designate a sober driver to get you
home safely, or contact your local sober ride program for a safe ride home,"
Sergeant Jason Dowdy, supervisor of the Sheriff's DUI Unit said.
According to
the NHTSA, a person is killed in a drunk-driving crash every 51 minutes. Most
of the drivers in these incidents have blood alcohol concentrations of at least
.15 grams per deciliter, which is nearly twice the legal limit of .08 grams
per deciliter.
The Pima
County Sheriff's Department encourages local residents to stay safe this
weekend with the following suggestions: Plan a safe way home before the
festivities begin; designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home; if
impaired, call a taxi, sober friend or family member or use public
transportation; and contact local police if you see a drunk driver on the road.
The Sheriff's
Department will have an active sobriety checkpoint on Friday, March 15.
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