The Hawaiʻi County Police Department is urging motorists to drive safely and sober this holiday weekend. Thus far in 2022, there have been 34 fatalities on Big Island roads, compared to 26 during the same time last year.
As HPD will be out in force and on the lookout this weekend, they are reminding the public of the following safety tips:
- Something as simple as cold medication or an over-the-counter sleep aid can impair driving, which may lead to a DUI arrest.
- Those who plan on going to a party or event should plan ahead and designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride-sharing service.
- DUI violations are not just for drunk driving. Any impairment, including drugs, is illegal while operating a vehicle.
On average, a DUI can set someone back $10,000 in attorney’s fees, fines, court costs, lost time at work, higher insurance rates, and more. A motorist caught driving under the influence of any impairing substance can face jail time.