Emphasis Patrols Starting in Yakima

The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” traffic emphasis patrols have begun in Yakima and throughout the state as people start having a good time for the holidays.

The State Traffic Safety Commission Director Darrin Grondel says the emphasis patrols are working to save lives. "In 2006 and 2007 we lost 12 people on Thanksgiving. And in 2011 and 2012 we lost two and then lost three respectively. Still too many."

Grondel says it shows that the emphasis patrols and other work in the state are saving lives especially during the busy holidays.

This week, like in 2012, officers and troopers from throughout the state will conduct special emphasis patrols looking for drivers who drink and get behind the wheel. They will also be looking for drivers who use marijuana before driving. The emphasis will continue through January 1.

Officers from Yakima, Grandview, Moxee, Sunnyside, Toppenish Union Gap and Wapato along with the County Sheriff' deputies and State Troopers will canvass roads looking for impaired drivers.