The Kansas Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies across the state are watching for impaired drivers during the holiday season.  They have kicked off the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which runs through January 1st.

Kansas Highway Patrol Captain Candice Breshears said there will be additional enforcement throughout the state.  Other law enforcement agencies are also expected to be part of the enforcement campaign.

During the holiday period in December, 2022, there were 26 people killed on Kansas roadways.   Nine deaths and 75 injuries were due to impaired driving, and there were a total of 152 crashes involving impaired drivers.

KDOT behavioral safety manager Gary Herman said there are consequences for driving under the influence.  Drivers could face jail time, they could lose their driver’s license and they could pay up to $10,000 in costs including attorney’s fees, fines, higher insurance rates and lost wages.

People are urged to celebrate the holidays responsibly and have a designated driver or use a rideshare service if they will be drinking.   Other steps that can be taken:

• Stay home if plans include drinking.

• Take the keys away and make a plan to get friends home safely.

• Contact local law enforcement if a suspected impaired driver is seen.