Columbia police cracking down on impaired drivers during holiday weekend

Columbia police announced on Thursday that the department will be stepping up enforcement on impaired driving during March 15-18.

Police will be partnering with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Boone County Sheriff’s Department and the University of Missouri Police Department.

Officers said motorists can expect to see more police, deputies and troopers on patrol focused on removing impaired drivers from the roadways.

On average, a person is killed every 53 minutes in an alcohol related crash in the United States and every two minutes someone is injured as a result of an impaired driver.

Police are encouraging those who plan on going out to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day to use designated drivers, ride-sharing programs and public transportation.

“Call a friend, call an Uber, or hail a cab, just do not get behind the wheel of vehicle if you’ve been drinking” says Sgt. Clint Sinclair. “The effects of impaired driving can be far reaching and in some cases, tragic and devastating.”