With the holiday season starting and many people traveling to visit friends and family, it’s important that Minnesota’s roads remain safe.

That’s why more than 300 local law enforcement agencies will be providing extra DWI enforcement weekends through New Year’s Eve. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety said in a news release this week that the enforcement campaign would begin Wednesday, Nov. 27, when many would be traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Drivers are urged to make smart, responsible decisions and choose to drive sober to prevent tragedy during the holidays.

According to the news release, preliminary data show as of Tuesday that 418 people have died in traffic crashes in the state this year. There were 664 alcohol-related driving deaths in Minnesota from 2019 to 2023.

Minnesota State Patrol Chief Col. Christina Bogojevic said in the news release that the extra DWI enforcement is meant to send a clear message — that one reckless decision can lead to devastating results, including a crash resulting in serious injury or death.

“Imagine finding out that someone you love didn’t make it home because they were involved in a crash with a driver who had too much to drink or was using drugs. Sadly, this is the reality too many families face when one of our troopers knocks on their door to deliver that life-changing news,” she said.

According to the news release, 127,419 people have been pulled over the past five years statewide for driving while impaired.

The Department of Public Safety also reminds the public that impaired means impaired, no matter the substance. In addition to alcohol, substances ranging from cannabis and hemp-derived THC products to prescription drugs and sleep aids can also affect driving abilities.

Similar to alcohol, drivers on Minnesota roads are not allowed to open any cannabis packaging or consume cannabis while driving.

A DWI conviction can lead to the loss of a driver’s license for up to a year and thousands of dollars in fines, along with possible jail time. According to the news release, repeat offenders and those arrested with a blood-alcohol concentration at 0.16 or higher must use an ignition interlock to regain driving privileges.

Officials recommend planning ahead for the holiday season. Be sure to plan a safe and sober ride for every celebration; offer to be a designated driver to make yourself available to pick up a friend or family member anytime, anywhere; and be sure to buckle up. According to the release, wearing a seat belt is the best defense anyone has against an impaired driver on the road.

The Department of Public Safety says if you see someone impaired about to drive, help them find a safe ride home. Additionally, if you see any suspected impaired driving, be sure to call 911 and be prepared to provide the location, license plate number and any observable behavior.

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