Arizona DUI task force gears up for New Year’s Eve

PHOENIX – A multi-agency DUI task force will be hoping to see Arizona drivers using common sense as they celebrate the new year.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Arizona can cost up to $10,000 and time in jail.

“We expect to see heavy presence as far as people leaving bars and nightclubs and house parties,” Trooper Jonathan Montes said Tuesday on KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Arizona’s Morning News.

“Our biggest thing is safety. We want to make sure everybody gets home safely,” he said.

Make it your #NewYearsResolution to get home safely tonight & every night. Stay sober, designate a driver or call a safe ride – if you feel different, you drive different.

🎆Happy New Year!🎆#DriveSober #AZTroopers #CourteousVigilance pic.twitter.com/XQ3TmrdTzG

— Dept. Public Safety (@Arizona_DPS) December 31, 2019

As you settle in for a day packed with college football bowl games, remember, one drink is too many to get behind the wheel. With so many options including a designated driver, public transportation, taxis and ride shares, you have NO excuse. Save lives and be responsible. pic.twitter.com/A8b5gxbeK9

— Tempe Police (@TempePolice) December 28, 2019

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office kicked off its sober holiday driving campaign at the start of the month. It will end New Year’s Day.

“This monthlong campaign is designed to get people to think about planning ahead and making sure they have a sober ride to and from their holiday events,” County Attorney Allister Adel said in a statement.

Montes agreed with planning ahead.

“(Have) a designated driver,” he said.

The trooper also said some of the same standards applied to drivers who weren’t imbibing:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Maintain a good distance between you and the car in front of you
• Stick to a reasonable speed
• Stay focused

DPS made 30 DUI arrests for the 2019 New Year’s holiday.

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