Seattle police ramp up DUI patrols ahead of New Year's festivities

As Seattle gears up for New Year's Eve celebrations, police are intensifying DUI patrols to ensure safety during the expected fireworks and drone show at the Space Needle. With thousands of attendees anticipated, the importance of responsible drinking cannot be overstated. Shelly Baldwin, director of the Washington State Traffic Safety Commission, emphasized that the cost of a DUI can start at $10,000, which is significantly higher than the fares for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The commission is funding additional patrols across Washington, involving 148 agencies statewide to prevent impaired driving. Baldwin highlighted that impaired driving has been a major concern on New Year's Eve, with nine fatalities recorded in 2023 alone, and speeding was a contributing factor in 70% of those cases, with alcohol involvement in half.

To promote safe travel, local transit services, including King County Metro, will offer free rides, aiming to create a safer environment for all during the holiday festivities.