KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Extra police patrols from a variety of King County law enforcement agencies will continue to keep an eye out for impaired drivers on New Year's Eve and through the weekend. These patrols are part of the statewide "Drive Hammered - Get Nailed" Holiday Campaign, funded by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

In King County, from 1992 - 2001, 1,178 people died in traffic crashes. Forty percent of these people (469 total) died in alcohol-related crashes. Statewide, alcohol-related motor vehicle collisions claim an average of 285 lives each year.

"Deaths from drunk or impaired driving are 100% preventable," said King County Executive Ron Sims. "Stop this dreadful waste of life - drive sober or ride with a sober driver. Report erratic or dangerous drivers by calling 911. And always wear a seatbelt."

In Washington State, a DUI arrest may result in jail time, thousands of dollars in court costs, attorney fees, insurance payments, ticket fees, mandatory addiction treatment, an ignition interlock, and lost time from work. You could also lose your license, car, or job if arrested for impaired driving.

The following agencies will have extra officers out over the New Year holiday: Auburn, Bellevue, Bothell, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, Lake Forest Park, Medina, Mercer Island, Redmond, Renton, Seattle, Sea-Tac, Shoreline, Snoqualmie, Tukwila and the Washington State Patrol.

King County Traffic Safety Coalition

The King County Traffic Safety Coalition is staffed by Public Health- Seattle & King County. Members include representatives from law enforcement agencies from across King County, the Eastside DUI Task Force, the WA Liquor Control Board, DUI victims' groups, traffic engineers, non-profit organizations, and others. Funding for the Coalition comes from the Washington State Traffic Safety Commission.

Members of media interested in doing a ride-along with law enforcement within King County, please call 206-205-5866.