Media Release: The consequences of impaired driving can last a lifetime; drive sober this holiday season to save a life

Extra DWI enforcement on Olmsted County roads Nov. 26 through New Year ‘s Eve

ROCHESTER, Minn. - The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office is joining with hundreds of law enforcement agencies statewide to provide extra DWI enforcement this holiday season. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety is coordinating the statewide campaign that will run every weekend starting Nov. 26 through Dec. 31.

We want everyone in Olmsted County to enjoy their holiday, and the best way to do that is to make sure every ride is safe and sober. When someone chooses to drive impaired, they are making a choice that can leave someone permanently injured or dead. There is simply no excuse for it. Our Deputies are ready to arrest impaired drivers for the safety of everyone on the road.

Impaired is impaired

Remember, substances ranging from legalized cannabis and hemp-derived THC edibles to prescription medications and sleep aids can affect safe driving abilities. If you feel different, you drive different. Anyone under the influence who is considering getting behind the wheel should put their keys down and get a sober ride.

  • There were 668 alcohol-related driving deaths in Minnesota from 2020-2024.
  • Alcohol and impaired crashes have lasting consequences for both drivers and their loved ones. Over the past five years, alcohol-related crashes have contributed to approximately 1,791 serious injuries.

Be safe and plan ahead

The best defense against impaired driving is planning ahead. Know how you are safely getting home from every holiday event and be a sober driver for friends and family whenever possible.

  • Plan a safe and sober ride for every celebration.
  • Offer to be a designated driver and make yourself available to pick up a loved one anytime, anywhere.
  • If you see someone impaired about to drive, help them find a safe ride home.
  • Buckle up: It’s the best defense against an impaired driver you may encounter on the road.
  • Report suspected impaired driving. Call 911 when witnessing impaired driving behavior. Be prepared to provide the location, license plate number and what behaviors you saw.
  • Remember, just like how drinking alcohol in a vehicle is illegal, it is illegal for drivers or passengers to open any cannabis packaging or consume cannabis while driving.

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