Public Safety

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over This Holiday

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The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department reminds revelers to not drink and drive this holiday season.

Deputies will be conducting additional DUI patrols through Jan. 1. The goal of these patrols is to find impaired drivers before they hurt or kill someone.

So far this year, more than 1,400 people have been arrested for DUI by the Sheriff’s Department. In 2014, deputies arrested 1,610 people for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

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The Sheriff’s Department has these tips for a safe New Year’s:

  • Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.
  • Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
  • If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member or use public transportation.
  • If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Here are some sober rider options for the holidays:

Michelle Mowad is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact