Law enforcement agencies throughout the state are taking part in a massive holiday season crackdown on drunk driving. California has experienced an increase in drunk driving fatalities the last six years in a row. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.
The California Highway Patrol is spearheading this year's holiday season crackdown. The agency says it's committing 80 percent of its officers to road patrol through the New Year's Day weekend.
The State Office of Traffic Safety has distributed more than $4.5 million to local police departments to beef up DUI prevention.
Last year statewide, more than 1,4000 people were killed and 31,000 injured in drunk driving crashes. San Diego ranked fourth in DUI fatalities among California Counties.
Law enforcement officials warn driving drunk is a serious crime. In addition to jail time or probation, offenders can temporarily lose their drivers license and face thousands of dollars in fines.
Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
