DWI Check Points To Be Set Up Around NYC For July 4 Weekend, Police Say

NEW YORK CITY, NY — A drunk driving crackdown is being launched in New York City over the Fourth of July weekend.

Police will be targeting drunk and drugged drivers between Friday and Tuesday, according to officials.

The holiday weekend is among the deadliest times for drunk-driving fatalities in the nation, according to the Department of Transportation.

The NYPD will be setting up random checkpoints around the city.

"If you're out celebrating this weekend, ensure you have a designated driver," said NYPD Commissioner James P. O’Neill.

"Our officers will be out across the City enforcing our traffic laws and cracking down on those who drink and drive."

In addition to NYPD's strict enforcement, "Know Your Limit" campaign will incentivize drinkers to take a cab by offering $10 off on rides booked through the cab hailing app Curb, officials said. Users of the app can use the code “NODWI” to get discounted rides from Friday to Tuesday between 7 p.m. and 4 a.m.

“Taxi and For-Hire Vehicle drivers play an essential safety role by helping passengers both stay off the road and get home comfortably after enjoying the holiday weekend,” said Taxi and Limousine Commissioner Meera Joshi.

“The City and TLC-licensed driver’s efforts to prevent both drunk and fatigued driving is also something to celebrate.”

The effort comes as part of the Mayor's Vision Zero plan, which aims to reduce traffic accidents citywide.

Lead image via UCI UC Irvine/Flickr