JACKSON, Wyo. — This New Year’s Eve, law enforcement will patrol the roads in Teton County and across the state with the specific purpose of detecting and apprehending impaired drivers.
Jackson Police Department (JPD) Lieutenant Russ Ruschill told Buckrail that a full shift of five officers will be on patrol on Tuesday evening.
“For those who will be drinking, please plan ahead to have a sober ride home,” Ruschill said. “Law enforcement partners will be out in full force to keep impaired drivers off of the roadways.”
Ruschill reminds the public that there are ways to stay safe while traveling during the holiday.
“We have lots of Ubers, lots of taxis and other ways to stay safe besides driving,” Ruschill said.
Besides driving sober or having a designated driver, motorists can call a ride service if they’ve been drinking. Residents should ensure that all of their guests leave with a sober driver. All travelers should always wear seat a belt to protect themselves against impaired drivers.
Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicated almost 29 people each day die in alcohol-impaired vehicle crashes. In Wyoming, a driver is considered impaired with a 0.08% or above blood-alcohol content. A driver deciding to drive impaired is not only risking their life but the lives of everyone around them. The consequences for driving impaired include fines, legal fees, driver license revocation and even jail time.
Additionally, the Town of Jackson reminds the public that vehicles parked on town streets or in town parking lots after 2 a.m. will be ticketed and might be towed. For those going out for the evening, the Town encourages folks to plan ahead. Overnight parking is permitted in the parking structure located at Millward Street and Simpson Ave. Vehicles are allowed to park in the garage for up to 48 hours.
START Bus encourages the community to consider supporting the reduction of traffic and safe driving throughout the year – ride the bus, walk or rideshare. Check www.startbus.com for details on all routes, schedules and fees or contact START Bus directly at (307) 733-4521.
Motorists can also stay safe and get the latest road and travel conditions by downloading WYDOT’s 511 app for their smartphones at wyoroad.info.
