UHP adds more shifts, hopes to reduce drug-impaired crashes

SALT LAKE CITY — We’re in the middle of the 100 deadliest days on Utah roads, and law enforcement agencies hope to reduce alcohol and drug-impaired crashes this weekend with more patrols.

The Utah Department of Public Safety reports almost 26% of car crash fatalities over the last four years involved drugs or alcohol.

 

Jaison Jensen, who’s sober now, said he’s driven drunk hundreds of times. But, it only takes one second to ruin a life.

“My hope is that sharing my story will help even just one person make a better decision or to make different decisions,” he said.

Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Zach Randall said it is working hundreds of extra shifts to reduce DUIs.

“If you’re planning to drink at all, just please don’t get behind the wheel,” Randall said.

The report also said 126 people died last year on Utah roads because of an impaired driver. And, 30 people have died this year from the same cause.

Suggested other reading:

• Utah Highway Patrol warns about changing a flat tire on freeways
• Law enforcement agencies cracking down on distracted driving
• Rise in traffic deaths comes as U.S. drivers face more distractions than ever

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