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Question: I hear there that DWIs can become more of an issue around the winter holidays. Can you talk about that? Thank you for all you do.

Answer: Minnesota law enforcement is participating in a statewide campaign that includes extra DWI enforcement that started the day before Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Over the past five years (2018-2022), more than 120,000 people have been arrested for DWI.

Each DWI risks the loss of a license for up to a year, thousands of dollars in fines and possible jail time. Repeat offenders, as well as first-time offenders arrested at 0.16 and above blood alcohol-concentration, must use an ignition interlock device to regain their driving privileges.

Even with all those costs, it’s still better than what could happen in a crash. Getting behind the wheel while impaired, whether it’s by alcohol or other substances, is incredibly dangerous. From 2017-2021, 49 people died in drunk driving-related crashes between the day before Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve in Minnesota.

Alcohol-related crashes not only take lives, they also change them forever. Those crashes leave people with chronic pain, medical bills and other problems that follow them for years.

There is some good news: These crashes are 100% preventable. The best way to save those lives is to have a sober driver. Either designate one from your group or plan for an alternative transportation option. If you see an impaired person about to get behind the wheel, speak up and get them a safe ride home.

Also, don’t forget to buckle up. It’s the best defense against impaired drivers.​

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848; or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.