January 17, 2022
TACOMA – Washington State Patrol (WSP) troopers removed four impaired drivers from our roadways in District 1 over the weekend who, in addition to being allegedly under the influence of alcohol or drugs, were found traveling with children under the age of 16 in the vehicle at the time of the arrest.
Of those four arrests, three occurred in Pierce County and one in Thurston County. District 1 troopers removed 48 such drivers in 2021 and 53 in 2020.
In addition to the charge of driving under the influence, impaired drivers taken into custody while traveling with minors in the vehicle could face additional charges of reckless endangerment for each occupant under the age of 16. The WSP contacts Child Protective Services regardless of the relation between the in custody driver and minor passengers.
The WSP is asking for motorists’ help removing impaired drivers from our roadways. Those who observe vehicles exhibiting signs of a possible driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs are asked to call 9-1-1, so law enforcement in the area may respond. Examples of driving behaviors that could be indicators the driver is possibly impaired include, but are not limited to:
-Lane travel
-Shoulder driving
-Erratic braking
-Erratic lane changes
-Stopping short or beyond stop lines
-No headlights activated after dark
-Excessive speed
-Impeding traffic / inconsistent speeds
Do not attempt to personally contact drivers you believe are impaired. Instead, call and report the vehicle to 9-1-1 and follow prompts provided by dispatchers. Try to include the vehicle description (make, model and color), license plate, and any observed occupant information.
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