The Maui Police Department’s Traffic Division has joined the nationwide initiative to educate the public about the dangers of impaired driving. The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration event observed by law enforcement agencies across the nation.
Maui police started setting up intoxication checkpoints at various locations throughout Maui County on Dec. 14 that will continue through the end of the year. Sign-waving events will also be held to bring additional awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.
The MPD is taking a zero-tolerance approach “to promote voluntary compliance” with all traffic laws and to reduce motor vehicle crashes on roadways.
MPD’s DUI Task Force asks the public to help keep the roads safe with these tips:
- Before consuming alcoholic beverages, plan a safe way home or designate a sober driver.
- If you’ve been drinking, utilize a car service, call a taxi or sober friend or family member to get home.
- If someone you’re with is impaired and intends to drive home, take their keys or help them make other arrangements to get to their next destination.
- Call the Maui Police Dept. if you see an impaired driver on the road. You could save a life.
Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.
