DPS out in force this holiday weekend

Arizona Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol officers, including the DUI Enforcement unit, will be taking part in a number of task forces throughout Arizona over this Labor Day weekend.

This holiday weekend marks the final long weekend of the summer. We expect plenty of holiday traffic on the highways. Patrol efforts will be directed to high-traffic corridors statewide in an effort to deter, detect and apprehend impaired drivers and other alcohol-related violations. Violations of DUI and alcohol-related laws as well as speed, safety belt and child restraint laws will be strictly enforced.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind over the long holiday weekend:

Impaired Driving- If you are planning on drinking this holiday make sure you have a designated driver or plan to call a cab. Once you start drinking your ability to make sound judgments decreases with each drink. Impaired driving extends beyond just the consumption of alcohol. Never use illegal drugs or drive while on prescription drugs that may impair your driving ability.

Safety Belts- A safety belt will ensure that you stop with your car. Without it, you may end up being thrown from the vehicle if you are involved in a collision.

Speeding– Speeding greatly increases the chances of a collision and reduces the amount of time to avoid one. Following the speed limits will decrease the chances of serious injury and even death in a collision

Attentiveness/Fatigue– Make sure your calls and text messages have been made before your drive. If your phone rings let it go to voicemail and call the person back when you have reached your destination. Make sure you are well rested before getting behind the wheel

Over the limit, under arrest- Expect the Max! Don’t drink and drive-designate a sober, licensed driver to get you there safely!

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