High visibility patrols will target impaired drivers in King County this Labor Day weekend

In a bid to enhance roadway safety, the King County Target Zero Traffic Safety Coalition announced that it will be conducting High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) patrols throughout this Labor Day weekend.

These patrols are focused on identifying and removing impaired drivers from the roads as part of the ongoing “100 Safe Days of Summer” campaign, which aims to reduce traffic-related fatalities during the year’s most dangerous season.

The HVE patrols are a response to the alarming rise in traffic fatalities in Washington, where 810 people lost their lives in 2023, with 400 of those deaths involving impaired drivers. The number of fatalities linked to impaired driving increased by 59% between 2019 and 2023, although preliminary data suggests a possible decline in 2024.

“Studies show that most Washingtonians avoid and take action against impaired driving. In fact, 71% of people don’t drink and drive, and 81% report intervening for others when needed,” said Sara Wood, Target Zero Manager for King County. “We’re making progress, but substances remain the most common factor in deadly crashes in King County. We all play a role in keeping our roadways safe, and we need everyone to plan for a sober ride home every time they go out.”

Local authorities are urging residents to proactively prevent impaired driving by designating a sober driver, using ride-share services, taking public transportation, or staying overnight at their destination if needed. Officials said that even a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .05—below the legal limit of .08—can impair driving abilities, doubling the risk of a crash and tripling it at .07 BAC compared to a sober driver.

The King County Target Zero Task Force and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission are spearheading these efforts to make roadways safer. Drivers arrested for DUI face significant financial and legal repercussions, including fines of at least $10,000, higher insurance rates, and other costs.

For more information on impaired driving prevention and sober ride options, visit Together We Get There.