As the festive cheer of the holiday season amps up in San Diego County, so do the measures to ensure public safety on the roads. The San Diego County Sheriff's Department is stepping up its game to curb impaired driving, rolling out increased patrols all through the holiday period—from December 13 to January 1, 2024, according to an official statement.
These ramped-up efforts to sweep the streets clean of inebriated drivers come with a hefty caution from the Sheriff's Department. In a bid to make individuals think twice about getting behind the wheel after a few drinks, the department stressed that the cost of an impaired driving arrest and conviction can soar "more than $15,000 in legal and court fees," as featured in their recent video on the subject.
The call to action rings clear—over a thousand individuals have already been arrested for impaired driving this year in San Diego County alone. Sheriff Kelly Martinez remains firm, telling residents, "This holiday season, be responsible and don't drive while under the influence," in a statement obtained by the department's news release.
Authorities urge not just those who partake in revelries, but also the wider community, to be vigilant and proactive. The danger isn't limited strictly to alcohol—prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana can also impair, particularly when mixed with other substances. Should anyone spot a driver they suspect to be under the influence, the Sheriff's Department encourages calling (858) 565-5200 or 9-1-1 immediately to possibly prevent a disaster waiting to happen.
Focused on pushing the stark reminder: "Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving," the department offers practical advice for a safe holiday. They advice to plan a safe way home before any celebration begins, designating a sober driver, and making ample use of taxis, ride-sharing services or public transport if impaired. The efforts are not just local initiatives—funding for the program comes from a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlighting the issue's national importance.
