Rhode Island police increase drunk driving patrols through Sept. 4

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association said that departments across the state will increase patrols aimed at identifying and arresting impaired drivers.

The increased patrol schedule will run through Sept. 4 as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” high-visibility enforcement campaign.

Bristol Police Chief Kevin Lynch, who is also the president of RIPCA, said that there have already been 45 traffic-related deaths in the state this year, which is an increase of 21 from at this point last year.

“Unfortunately, we are on track for record traffic fatalities this year and we want to get impaired drivers off our roads before they kill themselves or someone else,” he said.

Lynch added that people who plan to drink should make a plan, such as designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service, or make a plan to stay overnight, as a DUI charge can cost up to $10,000 in fines.

He also advised drivers and other residents to call 911 if they see an erratic driver on the road.