Approximately one-third of drivers in Washington were drug-positive according to a new study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). So this year, the cops are watching closely.
“As we kick-off the Summer Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, we want drivers to be as aware of the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs as they are of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol,” Darrin Grondel, Washington Traffic Safety Commission Director, said in a press release.
Washington law enforcement officers this weekend will join the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign aimed at encouraging everyone to get a safe ride, especially if alcohol, prescription or over-the-counter medicine, or other drug use might be causing any impairment.
Extra patrols will run from Aug. 19 to Sept. 5 throughout most cities in King County including Renton.
The Algona, Auburn, Bellevue, Black Diamond, Covington, Des Moines, Enumclaw, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, Lake Forest Park, Maple Valley, Mercer Island, Newcastle, Normandy Park, Pacific, Redmond, Sammamish, SeaTac, Seattle, Shoreline, Snoqualmie, and Tukwila Police Departments, and the Washington State Patrol will also be participating in the campaign through the coordination of the King County Target Zero Task Force.
The same study showed that 5 percent of Washington drivers were alcohol-positive with one percent exceeding the per se limit of 0.08 BAC.
“This shines the light on some good news,” said Grondel, “It is the norm in Washington to drive sober.”
The NHTSA study mirrors the state’s deadly crash data. In 2015, there were 251 impaired drivers involved in deadly crashes. Of these drivers, 20 percent tested positive for alcohol greater than 0.08 only and another 20 percent tested positive for a single drug. However, nearly 60 percent of these drivers tested positive for multiple drugs, or drugs mixed with alcohol.
“When someone combines impairing substances, such as consuming marijuana and drinking alcohol, they may experience a greater level of impairment than they expected,” said Grondel. “This data shows that combining alcohol and drugs, or one drug with another drug can be a very deadly mix for drivers.
“The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is designed to encourage all of our citizens to help us achieve our goal of zero traffic deaths. Before you drive, make sure your mind is alert and ready for the important task of driving.” Grondel continued. “Don’t risk getting arrested for a DUI, or causing a life-changing tragedy. Designate a sober, drug-free driver, catch a ride share, or walk with a buddy.”
These extra patrols are part of Target Zero—striving to end traffic deaths and serious injuries in Washington by 2030. For more information, visit www.targetzero.com.
