July 4 DUI Crackdown Ramps Up In Santa Cruz

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Santa Cruz police are warning that the 4th of July can be one of the most dangerous holidays for drivers due to drunken and drugged motorists. So to combat DUI in the city, the Santa Cruz Police Department is ramping up its efforts to get impaired drivers off the roads over the July 4 holiday.

“Drinking and driving is a bad combination,” Santa Cruz Police Department Sergeant Scott
Garner said. “The consequences are abundantly clear, yet people still make the poor decision to
drive after drinking. Please be smart and make this 4th of July holiday a fun and memorable one.

“Driving with just a buzz doesn’t cut it,” Garner continued. “With the rise in ride-share options, there really is no excuse for driving impaired.”

According to preliminary data from the California Highway Patrol, seven people were killed and
73 injured in alcohol-related crashes statewide on the 4th of July last year. Every deadly crash
involved a driver who had been drinking, according to the SCPD.

"If you are headed to 4th of July parties, designate a sober driver before heading out for the evening," the SCPD said in a statement. "If you are hosting a party, offer nonalcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers and monitor who is drinking. See people leaving who have been drinking? Check how they are getting home. Offer to let them stay the night if a sober driver is not available to take them home."

In addition to drunken driving, driving under the influence of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and/or marijuana can all land a DUI.

The average cost of a DUI arrest is approximately $13,500, accounting for vehicle impound fees,
fines, attorney fees, auto insurance hikes and other penalties, according to the SCPD.