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DWI Checks in Hazelwood April 26-27
DWI Sobriety Checkpoint Slated for
Weekend of April 26-27 in Hazelwood
(HAZELWOOD, MO – April 19, 2013) – The Hazelwood Police Department (HPD) will be conducting a DWI Sobriety Checkpoint during the weekend of April 26-27 at an undisclosed location within the city limits. This is part of an on-going commitment to keep local roadways safe for Hazelwood residents.
“Sobriety checkpoints are an innovative means of detecting and removing the alcohol-impaired driver from our local streets and highways,” states Hazelwood Police Chief Gregg Hall. “Driving while intoxicated continues to be a major contributing factor of traffic accidents in Missouri.”
In 2011, more than 32,000 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in the United States. Of those fatalities, 31 percent involved a driver or motorcycle operator that was alcohol-impaired. Every 53 minutes on average, someone is killed in a drunk driving crash. And, one in three people will be involved in a drunk driving accident some time during their lifetime.
Death and injuries are not the only consequences from impaired driving. Violators often face jail time, loss of their driver’s license and it could cost up to $10,000 in legal fees, fines, and result in higher insurance rates.
Studies show that a first-time convicted drunk driver is not a first-time offender, but rather it is simply the first time they have been caught. In fact, first-time offenders have driven drunk an average of 80 times before they are convicted,” according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
In July 2012, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon signed into law a bipartisan bill that requires convicted drunk drivers to use ignition interlocks on their vehicles to prevent future offenses. This program starts in October, making it mandatory for convicted DWI offenders to prove they are sober before they can start their vehicles.
“These interlock devices have the power to save lives and help offenders at the same time,” said MADD Missouri Gateway Affiliate Executive Director Meghan Carter. “Convicted drunk drivers who have an interlock can keep their jobs, keep going to school, and at the same time, keep the public safe.”
The Missouri State Highway Patrol urges all citizens to report any vehicle they observe operating in a careless manner. The public can call toll-free 1-800-525-5555 or on their cellular phone at *55. Also, visit www.saveMOlives.com for more details.
