ST. PAUL -- Minnesota roads will have increased patrols looking for drunk drivers around Labor Day, the state’s public safety department said.
The enhanced enforcement by more than 300 agencies across the state will help reduce traffic deaths and injuries surrounding Minnesota’s second-most deadly holiday on the roads. The increased efforts will run Friday through Labor Day, Sept. 7.
From 2010 to 2014, 24 people have died in traffic incidents in Minnesota, trailing Independence Day by just one death.
Donna Berger, director of the Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety, said it’s important for friends and family to help keep potential impaired motorists from driving while intoxicated.
“On a hot summer day, it’s easy to throw back a few drinks while enjoying the lake or backyard barbecue, and it’s easy to forget that driving home with a buzz is drunk driving,” she said. “All of us need to take a stand against those who choose to drive impaired. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Take the keys away from a friend or loved one, and find them a sober ride home. It could save a life, even yours.”
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