REDONDO BEACH (CNS) - Memorial Day weekend gets underway today and not only marks the unofficial start to summer, but is considered by law enforcement to be the start of California's 100 dangerous days of summer on the roads.
In an attempt to reduce the number of alcohol-related collisions, the Redondo Beach Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for suspected drunk or impaired drivers, according to Sgt. Stephen Sprengel.
“If you plan on drinking, don't plan on driving,” Sprengel said. “Know beforehand how you are getting home. It's never worth putting yourself and others at risk by driving when you should not be driving.”
A total of 43 people were injured in alcohol-related crashes last Memorial Day, accounting for 25 percent of all injury crashes, Sprengel said.
Police offered the following tips to make sure drivers have a safe Memorial Day holiday and summer:
-- Have a sober friend, ride-share, taxi or public transportation be your ride home;
-- Call 911 to report drunk drivers;
-- Hosting a party? Offer nonalcoholic drinks. Monitor who is drinking and how they are getting home;
-- Check any medications or over-the-counter drugs you are taking and how they may impact your ability to drive.
Drug-impaired crashes are on the rise in California in recent years and the RBPD reminded drivers that “DUI Doesn't Just Mean Booze.” Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and marijuana can also affect your ability to drive safely, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs, he said.