INDIO - Law enforcment agencies from across the Coachella Valley unite in an effort to get drunk drivers off the road.

 

The Avoid the 30 Campaign is underway, in which 30 law enforcement agencies join forces here in Riverside County. Police will be holding DUI and Drivers License Checkpoints in addition to looking for drunk drivers.

 

In an effort to reduce the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol involved crashes, DUI checkpoints are conducted to identify offenders and get them off the street, as well as educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving.

 

The Labor Day holiday is quickly approaching and is the last holiday travel period of the summer season.

 

"As people send their loved ones off to college or welcome those to visit our desert communities, we will see friends and families gathering to celebrate, often with alcohol," said officials with Avoid the 30.

 

Law enforcement is reminding everyone to make plans now for those weekend trips and celebrations and to use a 'Designated Driver' to avert arrest or worse, a deadly drunk driving tragedy.

 

Traffic volume and weather permitting, all vehicles may be checked and drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will be arrested.

 

"Our objective is to send a clear message to those who are considering driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol and/or drugs -Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. The public is encouraged to help keep our roadways safe by calling 911 if they see a suspected impaired driver" said officials with Avoid the 30.

 

Law enforcement region-wide is asking for everyone's support this weekend and throughout the remaining portion of the summer by arranging rides home for your friends, family, co-workers and yourself before the drinking begins. If you see dangerous driving, Report Drunk Drivers - Call 9-1-1!

 

Funding for the Avoid DUI Campaign is through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.