Don't drive drunk or high this season

With the holiday season upon us and people begin making travel plans, it’s important to think about personal safety and the well-being of first responders on Minnesota roads. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety is coordinating a statewide driving while impaired (DWI) extra enforcement campaign starting Nov. 27.

More than 300 local law enforcement agencies will be providing extra DWI enforcement weekends through New Year’s Eve.

Preliminary data shows that 418 people have died in traffic crashes so far this year, and there were 664 alcohol-related driving deaths in Minnesota from 2019 to 2023. In addition to alcohol, substances ranging from cannabis and hemp-derived THC products to prescription medications and sleep aids can also affect safe driving abilities.

“Imagine finding out that someone you love didn’t make it home because they were involved in a crash with a driver who had too much to drink or was using drugs. Sadly, this is the reality too many families face when one of our troopers knocks on their door to deliver that life-changing news,” said Minnesota State Patrol Col. Christina Bogojevic. “Extra DWI enforcement is meant to send a clear message: One reckless decision can lead to jail time, or worse, a devastating crash resulting in serious injury or even death — to yourself or an innocent person.”

Over the last five years, 127,419 people statewide were stopped for driving while impaired. First responders are hoping that the extra enforcement, combined with raising public awareness, will prevent traffic deaths and convince people to drive sober.