‘Help prevent tragedies’: Deschutes County Deputies increase DUI patrols for the holidays

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is increasing patrols across Central Oregon this holiday season as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, a U.S. Department of Transportation initiative to reduce impaired driving.

Deputies will be on the lookout for drunk and impaired drivers through New Year’s Eve, joining law enforcement agencies across the country in an effort to keep roadways safe during one of the busiest travel times of the year.

“We want everyone in Deschutes County to enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season,” Sheriff Ty Rupert said. “That means planning ahead, driving sober, and looking out for one another. Our deputies will be increasing patrols to help prevent tragedies before they happen.”

Winter conditions can already make driving hazardous, and adding alcohol or drugs to the mix only increases the risk. National data shows that alcohol-related crashes cost the U.S. an estimated $57 billion annually. Locally, deputies say even one drink can impair your judgment and reaction time behind the wheel.

The Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers to plan ahead before celebrating: designate a sober driver, use a taxi or rideshare, or find another safe ride home. Officials also urge residents to report suspected drunk drivers and to keep friends from getting behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking.

For more information on drunk driving prevention, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website at nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.