Beginning Friday Extra DWI Patrols on Minnesota Roads

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – More than 16,000 people have been arrested this year for driving while impaired in the state of Minnesota.

To curb the high numbers, troopers, deputies and officers will be participating in a DWI enforcement campaign beginning Friday, Aug. 19 through Sept. 5. It includes extra patrols, awareness and education.

Law enforcement will be looking for drivers who appear impaired, whether by alcohol or other substances. Driving while impaired by any substance is illegal. Drugged driving incidents are on the rise and it’s a growing concern for Minnesota law enforcement.

“We’ve seen a spike in DWI arrests this year and a pretty significant increase in recent years with the number of drivers who are being arrested for drug-impaired driving,” said DPS-OTS Director Mike Hanson. “Drivers need to be aware that cold medicine, prescription medication, recently legalized THC edible products or any other drug can contribute to impairment and a DWI. Driving while impaired can lead to an arrest, or even worse, serious injury or death. Don’t take the chance. Always plan for a sober ride.”

During the last five summers (May-August), 203 people died in drunk driving-related crashes.

More than one of every five deaths (23 percent) on Minnesota roads is drunk driving-related.