In the early morning hours of December 11, 2014, Snoqualmie Police responded to a car in a ditch near Snoqualmie Parkway and SE 96th. Luckily no one was hurt in the one-vehicle accident. The driver, though, was booked into jail after a portable breathalyzer test showed her blood alcohol level was at .24 – three times the legal limit.
According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), if you choose to drive while impaired this holiday season, there are 120 police agencies around 
Washington committed to making sure you are arrested and successfully prosecuted.
This holiday season, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission is funding a significant number of local emphasis patrols, in which officers from the 120 agencies will work overtime to provide extra coverage at the hours when most DUI-related collisions occur.
“Keeping your families together and our roads safe is our first priority this holiday season,” said Traffic Safety Commission Director Darrin Grondel, “Reaching Zero fatalities requires your help. Drive sober, report a DUI, keep your eyes on the road and buckle up. It’s your best defense against a DUI-driver.”
WSP says that although enforcement is a key part of changing driver behavior, seat belts and other occupant protection devices are saving lives as well. Being a sober driver protects you from yourself; buckling up helps protect you from the irresponsible driver.
“Our troopers have seen the results of impaired driving up close, and very personally,” said WSP Deputy Chief Curt Hattell. “The only thing worse than making a death notification is doing so during what should be a festive holiday season.”
In the emphasis patrols, WSP troopers work right alongside county sheriff’s deputies and city police officers, guided by data that helps predict the areas where DUIs are most likely to cause a tragedy.
WSP urges public to use their influence to help keep others from driving while impaired – to make 2014 a joyous and safe holiday season.
