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The
Santa Monica Police Department, along with other participating law
enforcement agencies in the area will be out in force through January
1, 2002 to crack down on drunk driving offenders as part of our annual
holiday campaign against drunk driving.
The
holiday season typically associated with travel and celebration is one
of the highest periods for alcohol-related traffic deaths. Santa Monica Police selected this period to bring this public
awareness campaign to help prevent tragedies caused by drinking and
driving.
Last
year, an estimated 16,653 people were killed across the country in
alcohol-related crashes. Representing
nearly 40 percent of all traffic fatalities for this period.
1,401 of those deaths occurred in California.
Last year, Santa Monica had three alcohol related traffic
collision fatalities
The
Santa Monica Police Department previously announced a widespread
checkpoint operation during the holiday season to apprehend drunk
driving offenders. “It’s our goal to make this holiday season one
of the safest seasons ever for those visiting and shopping in Santa
Monica.” Chief Butts said.
MADD
(Mothers Against Drunk Driving) believes sobriety checkpoints are one
of the most effective tools to detect and deter drunk drivers.
“Our roadways must be free from the threat of
alcohol-impaired drivers,” explained Ms. Tina Pasco, Executive
Director, MADD, Los Angeles. “Highly
publicized sobriety checkpoints alert motorist to stay off the roads
or designate a non-drinking driver to avoid a drunk driving arrest.
“Checkpoints also provide an opportunity to remind motorists
to buckle up because seatbelts are the best defense in a drunk driving
crash, “ Ms. Pasco said.
Public
opinion polls show strong support for sobriety checkpoints.
A 1990 US Supreme Court ruling established the
constitutionality of such stops for DUI enforcement and deterrence.
Studies show a reduction in alcohol-impaired driving where
checkpoints have been used.
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