The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has revealed plans to increase DWI patrols in the 15 counties with the highest number of drunk driving accidents and fatalities. The targeted counties include Ramsey and Hennepin, which are at the top of the list.
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Targeting High Incidence Counties
Drunk driving is a major problem in Minnesota, resulting in accidents, debilitating injuries, and deaths. The DPS asserts that it would be in the best interests of the public to focus on the problem counties. This decision makes sense in light of the fact that 15 counties have the highest concentration of DWI incidences.
Damning Track Record
The DPS notes that in the period 2014 to 2018, over half of all the drunk driving-related fatalities happened in 15 out of the 87 counties in the state. Similarly, 982 of the 1,657 alcohol-related crashes in the state occurred in the 15 counties. The 15 states also account for 281 of the 540-drunk driving-related fatalities that occurred in the same period.
To put the statistics into perspective, the 15 counties account for 52% of the drunk driving fatalities that occurred in the period yet they comprise 17% of all the counties in Minnesota. The DPS will intensify patrols in these counties through September to reduce the number of drunk driving incidences.
Most of the counties with high cases of drunk driving are located in metro areas. Hennepin and Ramsey counties top the list and will experience intense patrols to rid the roads of drunk drivers. Residents of the two counties and outsiders who use roads on these counties need to take extra caution when taking the wheel.
Road Users Should Avoid DWI
Drivers should always ensure they are sober while driving in any of the 15 counties. On average, a first-time conviction for DUI costs around $10,000. There is also a risk that driving under the influence will cause serious injuries or even death to other road users.
To be on the safe side, people planning to party in the two counties should have a designated driver or hire a cab or a ride-sharing service. They can also use public transportation or stay at the venue until they are sober.
