Checkpoints, preventative patrols planned.

[view:node_ad=5]Thanks to a $5.9 million dollar grant from the California
Office of Traffic Safety, the California Highway Patrol will be ramping up
efforts to keep drunk drivers off the roads.

Throughout 2007, 1,489 people were killed in alcohol-related
car accidents, and over 30,000 were injured.

"Our goal is to save lives by ensuring California's
roadways are a safe place for all motorists," said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.
 "Removing impaired drivers from the road
is a giant step in that direction."

The grant money will be dispersed throughout the state, mainly
being used to pay for overtime for officers who work the programs.

Over 110 DUI checkpoints will be planned in California
this year, along with 35 DUI task force operations and proactive patrols.

The officers will also be looking out for other traffic
safety violations, such as speeding, unsafe passing and people not wearing
their seatbelt.