Holiday DUI Patrols Underway In San Mateo County

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office is staffing extra patrols targeting impaired drivers this month as part of an effort to keep the roads safe as people travel to and from holiday celebrations.

According to the sheriff's office, the county tapped state grants to fund the initiative, which covered Thanksgiving and will continue through Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

"We want everyone to enjoy the holidays and stay safe," Sheriff Christina Corpus said in a statement. "If you intend to go out and celebrate, please plan ahead and arrange for a safe, sober ride home. Driving under the influence should never be an option."

Officials note that drunk driving has historically been more prevalent during December, with more than 4,500 people killed in resulting crashes across the nation during the month between 2017 and 2021. Deputies also remind residents that prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and marijuana can also cause drivers to become impaired.

The extra patrols are funded by annual grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.