Police Adding Extra DUI Shifts Ahead Of BYU-Utah Game, Labor Day Weekend

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Law enforcement agencies across the state are gearing up for extra DUI enforcement as part of a national “Drive Sober, or Get Pulled Over” campaign ahead of Labor Day weekend, the end of summer and next week’s BYU-Utah game.

The Utah Department of Public Safety announced officers from 26 agencies will work 210 extra shifts beginning now through September 2.

“Most people never go out expecting to drive home drunk. So what’s happening? Too many people think ‘I’m fine’ when they really aren’t. Too many crashes happen because someone thought ‘I’m good’ but they weren’t,” said Utah Highway Patrol Lieutenant Colonel Mark Zesiger. “Even one drink can be one too many. Always find a safe and sober ride.”

The DPS said the number one reason Utahns risk driving impaired is due to an overconfidence in sobriety.

“Choices made behind the wheel impact everyone on the road,” Zesiger said. “So please don’t risk driving impaired. Protect your life and the lives of those around you by planning for a safe and sober ride.”

Last year, officers made an average of 27 DUI arrests per day. Mothers Against Drunk Driving estimated the average drunk driver will risk driving impaired over 80 times before being arrested.

The DPS said an average of 33 people in Utah die annually due to impaired driving incidents.

Police recommended these steps as safe alternatives to drinking and driving:

• If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 911.
• Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
• Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safe.