The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department announced that it will have additional officers on patrol in the cities of Canyon Lake, Lake Elsinore, and Wildomar from August 16 through Labor Day looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The additional efforts to prevent impaired driving are part of a national enforcement campaign, Driver Sober or Get Pulled Over.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant, avoid driving impaired, and report any suspicious driving behavior to local authorities. The campaign underscores the importance of responsible driving during this period, helping to prevent accidents and save lives.
“We want everyone to enjoy their end of summer travels and Labor Day festivities, but it’s imperative to do so responsibly,” Riverside County Sheriff’s Deputy Keyser said. “Driving under the influence not only puts your life at risk but also endangers everyone else on the road. Our goal is to reduce preventable crashes and save lives.”
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office offers the following safety tips:
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, arrange for a designated driver, use a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation.
- Buckle Up: Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself in the event of a crash.
- Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as texting or eating while driving. Keep your focus on the road.
- Follow Speed Limits: Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
- Watch for Pedestrians and Bicyclists: With more people enjoying outdoor activities, be extra vigilant and share the road responsibly.
- Take Breaks: If you’re traveling long distances, take regular breaks to rest and avoid fatigue.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 13,524 people were killed in drunk driving crashes in 2022 — that’s one person every 39 minutes.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
