Extra troopers patrolling to arrest impaired drivers

The Washington State Patrol is adding extra patrols to hunt for impaired drivers starting Thursday.

“The extra patrols will target impaired drivers that are under the influence of alcohol and or drugs,” said a spokesman.

Every December, at least 40 people die in our state in traffic crashes or collisions.

The greatest increase in the number of fatal crashes involves drivers with a combination of alcohol and drugs or a combination of drugs. This number went from 78 fatalities in 2011 to 146 fatalities in 2015.

“The Washington State Patrol continues to strive to reach our Target Zero goal of zero traffic fatalities or serious injury collisions by the year 2030,” said the spokesman. “Buzzed, high, or drunk, if you’re impaired you’re under arrest.”

The extra patrol are active through Jan. 1.

This story was originally published December 14, 2016 at 3:21 PM with the headline "Extra troopers patrolling to arrest impaired drivers."