Sheriff’s Department increases DUI enforcement

VISTA — The San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Vista Traffic Division will be increasing DUI enforcement activity on every weekend during the months of November and December this holiday season. The effort is in conjunction with the Vista Patrol
The station’s annual “Holiday Watch” is aimed at combating typical holiday season crime, and focuses on taking pre-emptive measures to reduce the numbers of intoxicated drivers on local streets this holiday season, and hopefully make the city’s roadways safer during a traditional busy holiday shopping season.
The effort is made possible by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The Vista Sheriff’s Traffic Division will be doubling its usual staffing on Friday and Saturday evenings and early morning hours each weekend from two to four traffic officers. Two additional officers will be focused on DUI enforcement throughout Vista.
The effort is intended to prevent or reduce the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol related crashes. All too often, people are senselessly injured or killed on local roadways by impaired drivers. This DUI enforcement operation is an effort to reduce those tragedies.
Deputies will also be checking to insure drivers are properly licensed during their contacts with motorists. Drivers operating vehicles without a valid license or with a suspension are subject to having the vehicle impounded for up to 30 days.
By publicizing these enforcement and education efforts, the San Diego Sheriff’s Department believes motorists can be deterred from drinking and driving. They encourage everyone to plan ahead when attending an event where alcohol will be consumed.
The public is encouraged to help keep roadways safe by calling 911 if they see a suspected impaired driver.