JAMESTOWN – New York State Police in conjunction with local law enforcement agencies around the state will crack down on impaired driving during Super Bowl weekend as apart of the “STOP-DWI” campaign.
During the enforcement period, which runs from Saturday, February 2 until Monday, February 4 at 4. a.m., drivers can expect a number of sobriety checkpoints and DWI patrols.
In addition, law enforcement will also be enforcing underage drinking laws and spotting motorists who are using cell phones or other electronic devices while driving.
State Police said while the campaign has been proven to be effective at reducing the number of drinking and driving fatalities around the state, too many lives continue to be lost due to crashes caused by drunk driving
Officials said during last year’s campaign, police agencies arrested 120 individuals for drunk driving and issued over 7,000 tickets.
Acting State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett said there are “no winners” in this situation when someone gets behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol.
“If you are going to be drinking, have a game plan to get home safely….if you’re celebrating, do so responsibly. Together, we can save lives and prevent serious injuries.”
Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement vehicles during the campaign.
The CITE vehicles blend in with everyday traffic which allows police to easily identify motorists who are using electronic devices while driving.
An impaired driving conviction carries a maximum fine of $10,000, up to seven years in prison and a license revocation.
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