The Nevada Highway Patrol is partnering with multiple local law enforcement agencies in Nevada to participate in the Joining Forces Impaired Drivers/Riders Campaign.
The campaign is dedicated to bringing the community's attention to the dangers of impaired driving
During the holiday season, the Reno Police see an uptick in many driving incidents. A lot of people are out celebrating with family and friends, and law enforcement is encouraging everyone to get home safely.
"The holidays can be a tricky thing," said Hunter Mercurio, Public Information Officer, Reno Police Department. "We see a multitude of different crimes that do occur, from domestic violence to drunk driving. With the drunk driving, we just want to make sure that we take preventative measures as well, and let our community know, get a safe ride home."
Mercurio says whether it's an Uber, Lyft, or a designated driver, first responders just want families and community members to be safe during this time of year.Â
He adds that there will be an increased amount of coordinated visible patrols across Nevada to remove impaired drivers from the roadways.Â
"This is a great opportunity for law enforcement to tackle issues like distracted driving, DUI, speeding, click-it-or-ticket, all those various issues that we see on the road to hopefully help curb those trends and keep our community safer," he said.
Reno Police say additionally, this campaign can help inform the community of driving distracted, which is a massive issue in our country today.Â
"Distracted driving is not just being on your cell phone," said Mercurio. "We've seen people who are eating and driving or even reading a book and driving. Even if you drop something in your car, wait to pick that thing up until you're safely stopped somewhere."
And that pulling over or stopping is a great way to get rid of distractions.
"It's just very important if you do need to make a phone call or you do want to, go to a family event and drink, just make sure that you're properly planning those things, to avoid getting in a serious accident or arrested," Mercurio said.
The campaign lasts from December 16 to January 5.
