Albert Lea Police officers arrested two impaired drivers during a St. Patrick’s Day impaired driving enforcement effort. The effort also included seat belt enforcement — zero unbelted motorists were cited under the state’s primary seat belt law that requires drivers and all passengers to be belted.

“Alcohol-related crashes are an ongoing problem on Albert Lea roads, and more heightened DWI enforcement campaigns will continue year-long,” says Lt. J.D. Carlson. “Freeborn County drivers need to take responsibility and make a plan for a sober ride home before they start drinking. There were many that didn’t, and they’ll be paying out the ‘green’ for some time.”

Statewide on St. Patrick’s Day, 2006-2008, alcohol-related crashes accounted for seven of 14 traffic deaths and 12 serious injuries. During that same time period, 1,567 impaired drivers were arrested for DWI.

Extra DWI enforcement efforts will continue throughout 2010 in Freeborn County.

During 2006-08 in Freeborn County, alcohol-related crashes killed four motorists and seriously injured six. The economic impact of those crashes cost Freeborn County an estimated $4,943,000. During that same time period, 556 motorists were arrested for DWI in Freeborn County.

Each year, alcohol-related crashes account for up to 200 deaths and 3,000 serious injuries in Minnesota.