Media Advisory: St. Patrick's Day STOP-DWI Crackdown

• by New York State Department of Motor Vehicles

ALBANY, NY (03/13/2009)(readMedia)-- -

WHAT: St. Patrick's Day STOP-DWI Crackdown

WHEN: Runs through March 17th

WHERE: Statewide Enforcement

NOTES: This is the second of seven STOP-DWI crackdown periods across the state this year. During the enforcement wave, state, county and local law enforcement agencies will be out in force, utilizing sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols, to deter drunk driving and ensure the safety of our roadways. Motorists are reminded that driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher will put them over the limit and under arrest.

STOP-DWI, or "Special Traffic Options Program for Driving While Intoxicated," is a comprehensive and financially self-sustaining highway safety program. All 62 counties are participating in the program, which allows each to establish a STOP-DWI Program that qualifies for the return of all fines collected for alcohol and other drug-related traffic offenses occurring within its jurisdiction.

The first STOP-DWI crackdown period of 2009 was January 26th - February 2nd for Superbowl Sunday. The remaining crackdown periods for this year are: May 21st - May 25th, Memorial Day; June 21st - July 5th, Fourth of July; August 21st - September 7th - National Over the Limit-Under Arrest Enforcement; October 25th - October 31st, Halloween; and November 20th -January 2nd, Holiday Season.

SPECIAL NOTE: Media wishing assistance on setting up interviews with local STOP-DWI coordinators, law enforcement or state officials are encouraged to contact DMV.

CONTACT: DMV Communications: 518-473-7000