Approximately one-third of drivers in Washington were drug-positive, according to a new study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
“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,” said Darrin Grondel, Washington Traffic safety commission director.
Washington law-enforcement officers join the national 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, 2016. The Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Naval Base Kitsap, Port Orchard, Poulsbo and Suquamish Police Departments, the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Patrol will be participating in the campaign through the coordination of the Kitsap County Traffic Safety Task Force.
The same study showed that 5 percent of Washington drivers were alcohol-positive, with 1 percent exceeding the limit of .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 .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.
“This data shows that combining alcohol and drugs, or one drug with another drug can be a very deadly mix for drivers,” Grondel said.
“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,” Grondel said. “Before you drive, make sure your mind is alert and ready for the important task of driving. 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.
— Edited by Michelle Beahm
