In a 10-day stretch around Labor Day last year, 21 people died in DUI-involved vehicle crashes in Pennsylvania.
Police are hoping heightened DUI-detection patrols will trim that number this week and deter individuals from driving impaired.
More than 50 “task forces” – groups of officers trained in drug and alcohol DUI detection – will be patrolling Pennsylvania roads through Monday, according to Lancaster County Assistant District Attorney Ande Gonzalez.
The increased enforcement effort will include roving patrols and stationary DUI checkpoints, with a specific target on “drugged drivers.”
DUI crashes involving, marijuana, prescriptions drugs, and other substances are up 33 percent in Pennsylvania over the past five years.
Last year, police across the state filed charges in over 20,000 drugged-driving cases, according to Gonzalez.
Labor Day, and the week before it, is often a time for final parties and picnics of the summer. That typically means more impaired individuals are getting behind the wheel.
The Lancaster County District Attorney’s office advises those drinking alcohol over the holiday to do so responsibly by using designated drivers, public transit and taxi/Uber drivers.
Drivers are urged to be vigilant and aware of other drivers on the road that might be impaired.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us