Extra patrols net 172 drunk drivers in March

Officials at the Department of Public Safety say enhanced patrols in March resulted in 172 DWI arrests in the state's 13 deadliest counties for impaired driving.

Officers in those counties stopped nearly 4,000 vehicles and issued more than 1,000 citations for traffic- and equipment-related violations.

Department of Public Safety Spokesman Nathan Bowie says officials expect to see more impaired driving as the weather warms up.

"Summer months, basically June through August, are the deadliest for impaired driving and that's when we have the most DWI arrests as well," he said. "Obviously, it's a party atmosphere and people are celebrating the warm weather and people make the poor decision to get behind the wheel after drinking."

Bowie says the enhanced patrol is part of a year-long effort between the State Patrol, county sheriff offices and municipal agencies.

"This type of extra enforcement will continue and it's important that motorists have a plan for safe and sober ride," he said.