In an effort to crack down on drunk driving, Whitefish will experience an increase in law enforcement patrols starting Wednesday, Aug. 19, and continuing through Labor Day.

Whitefish law enforcement and the Montana Highway Patrol will be watching for impaired driving through the upcoming holiday weekend as part of the National Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over mobilization. According to a press release from the Montana Department of Transportation, Labor Day Weekend is a popular travel time with increased traffic on roads and this year is anticipated to be no exception.

The press release states “it is more important than ever to drive safely and plan for a sober ride.”

According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 38% of all traffic fatalities during the Labor Day holiday period in 2018 involved a drunk driver. And in Montana, from 2010 to 2019, there were 110 fatalities within the two-week period leading up to and including Labor Day Weekend. Drivers impaired by alcohol were involved in 36% of these incidents.

“We understand that everyone wants to enjoy this three-day weekend,” Whitefish Police Chief Bill Dial said. “But we want you to do it responsibly. Beyond risking your personal freedom and safety, driving impaired is a choice that puts other lives in danger. That’s why we are increasing patrols during the extended holiday period of mid-August to early September, to make sure no one’s summer ends with injury or even worse, death.”

Choosing to drive impaired in Montana also has serious and costly consequences. According to the press release, it can result in a DUI, having one’s license revoked, possible jail time and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Montanans are encouraged to take part in the National Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over efforts by reporting any suspected impaired drivers to local law enforcement and by helping to ensure all friends and family have secured sober transportation. The press release also urges the use of seat belts.

This upcoming effort, along with other enforcement and educational campaigns, are strategies to reach “Vision Zero,” which according to the Montana Department of Transportation, means zero deaths and zero serious injuries on Montana roadways.

For more information about Vision Zero, contact Janet Kenny at 406-444-7417 or jakenny@mt.gov.