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DUI enforcement continues over holiday weekend

The Maui News

Police are continuing increased DUI checkpoints and enforcement through the New Year’s weekend, following a year when 40 percent of traffic deaths involved a driver impaired by alcohol or drugs.

As of Thursday, police reported 10 traffic deaths on Maui County roads in 2020 for a 57 percent decline from the 23 fatalities in 2019. Four of the 10 traffic deaths involved someone impaired by alcohol or drugs, police said.

Police have been participating in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign throughout the holiday season.

“The goal is to keep our roads and community safe during the holiday season,” said Lt. William Hankins, commander of the police Traffic Section.

In addition to increased enforcement of impaired driving, officers are enforcing violations for speeding, improper seat belt use, cellphone use while driving and running red traffic lights, Hankins said.

Police are asking the public to help in the effort.

“If someone you know is about to drive after drinking, take his or her keys, offer another alternative and help us prevent a tragedy,” Hankins said. “Take care of your loved ones this holiday and let’s make sure everyone arrives home safely. Working together as a community, we can all help do our part to make our roads safer.”

Police recommend that people who will be drinking alcohol plan ahead and designate a sober driver or call ride-sharing services, use the Maui Bus or phone a sober friend or family member.

“Remember, a sober driver is not the person who drank the least,” Hankins said. “It is someone who did not drink at all.”

Police also reminded drivers to “always wear your seat belt — it is your best defense in a crash.”

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