EXTRA DRUNK DRIVING PATROLS SCHEDULED FOR SUPER SUNDAY

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Maryland state troopers have important traffic safety advice for drivers this weekend which includes:

-Do not wear large pieces of cheese on your head while driving;

-Do not wave terrible towels while driving; and the most important of all advice which is-

-DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE.

For those who fail to heed the advice not to drink and drive, Maryland State Police will have special DUI saturation patrols on duty this Sunday. Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Terrence B. Sheridan has directed each of the 22 barracks to deploy additional patrols to specifically target drunk driving. Troopers on regular patrol duty have also been instructed to focus on drunk driving enforcement when not handling other calls for service.

“Events associated with the biggest game of the year unfortunately result in an increased potential for people drinking and driving,” Colonel Sheridan said. “I hope those planning to drive this Sunday will heed our warning and refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages. The goal of our extra drunk driving patrols is to locate and arrest those who ignore our warning and endanger the lives of others before their careless disregard for the safety of others results in tragedy.”

Troopers are reminding motorists of the usual tips to avoid drinking and driving:

-Choose a designated driver who remains sober;

-Stay at a nearby hotel or at the event location until you are sober; or

-Call a cab or use public transportation.

Event hosts are urged to serve food along with alcoholic beverages, which will help slow the absorption of alcohol in the digestive systems of those drinking.

Drivers are reminded that even their first DUI offense can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail, as well as a license suspension of six months. Experts estimate that the total of costs associated with a DUI arrest can range from $5,000 to $20,000. Driving with a blood alcohol content of .07 (driving while impaired) is illegal in Maryland and .08 (driving under the influence) or higher is illegal in every state. A driver under the age of 21 with any measurable alcohol in their system is in violation alcohol laws in Maryland.