ST. PAUL — Increased impaired driving patrols will hit Minnesota roads throughout July, one of the deadliest months for alcohol-related crashes. The statewide enhanced impaired driving enforcement sweep is administered by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and will include around 400 law enforcement agencies patrolling extra hours. The campaign covers the 4th of July holiday weekend.

Over the last three years in Minnesota, (2004–2006), 540 motorists were killed in alcohol-related crashes and more than 113,000 were arrested for DWI. In July alone during this period, 67 motorists were killed in alcohol-related crashes and more than 10,000 were arrested for DWI. In all, 500,395 Minnesota motorists have a DWI — one in eight with a driver’s record.

“Extra DWI patrols will address impaired driving when the behavior is at its peak,” says Cheri Marti, DPS Office of Traffic Safety director. Summer is the deadliest time on Minnesota roads, and a jump in impaired driving is a significant factor. “Failing to make smart, safe decisions by driving impaired results in roads becoming potential death corridors.”

Marti adds that seat belt non-use is prevalent in alcohol-related fatalities, and as a result, officers will include belt enforcement in July. Of the impaired drivers and their passengers killed in alcohol-related crashes over the last three years, over 70 percent were not wearing seat belts. Of all Minnesota nighttime traffic deaths (9 a.m.–3 a.m.) during 2004–2006, 66 percent of the victims were unbelted.

A DWI can cost up to $20,000 when factoring in associated fees and increased insurance rates.