MEDIA RELEASE

The Hawai’i Police Department’s Traffic Services Section organized a sign-waving event on Kamehameha Avenue in Hilo on Monday (June 28). This event was to remind motorists that Independence Day weekend is just around the corner and to make everyone aware of the danger of drinking and driving.

The Traffic Services Section was supported by an individual community member, a representative of the Big Island Substance Abuse Council, the 39th Hawai’i Fire Department Recruit Class, a Community Police Officer and an officer of the Traffic Enforcement Unit.

In the first half of 2010, there were 18 traffic fatalities—almost twice as many as in the same time period last year. At least half of them involved alcohol, drugs or both. Therefore, once again, motorists were reminded that police are enforcing “Over the limit—under arrest” all year long and especially on holidays.

Dieter Blattler, traffic safety coordinator at the Hawai’i Police Department, pointed out that not only impaired drivers but also distracted drivers are causing crashes.

“I would like to ask everybody to obey the cell phone ban and neither talk nor text during driving,” Blattler said. “If you drink and don’t have a sober, licensed designated driver, don’t take a chance—take a taxi!”