Police Remind Motorists to Drive Sober During New Year’s Holiday

As 2024 comes to a close, the Hawai‘i Police Department is reminding drivers to “Have A Plan” to drive sober this New Year’s holiday emphasizing the importance of responsible driving with the campaign, “If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DUI.”

“Most people don’t drive impaired because they understand how dangerous it is,” said Torey Keltner, Traffic Services Section Program Manager for the Hawai‘i Police Department.

“Impaired driving is illegal and can have catastrophic effects on your life. It’s essential to avoid getting behind the wheel after using any substance that impairs your abilities to drive. Officers will be out in full force, actively monitoring and enforcing impaired driving laws, so have a plan to get home safe.”

Violating Hawai‘i’s drug-impaired driving laws can lead to severe consequences, including hefty costs. On average, a DUI can cost over $10,000 in attorney fees, fines, court costs, lost wages, higher insurance premiums, and more.

Drug impairment remains a serious issue on Hawai‘i Island roads, with drugs contributing to 54 percent of traffic fatalities over the last four years. Between 2021 and 2024, 56 out of 104 traffic deaths showed that drug impairment was a primary factor in the crash.

Very few people still believe that being high doesn’t affect driving. Many studies show that marijuana impairs reaction times, cognitive abilities, and makes it harder to stay in your lane. Even over-the-counter and prescription medications can impair driving ability, so read the label and talk to your doctor. If you’ve used anything that impairs your driving ability, do what the vast majority do, don’t drive high. Instead, arrange for a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare service to get home safely.

If you are unable to drive, give your keys to a sober driver. In Hawai’i we take care of our friends and family, so if you notice a friend considering driving while impaired, take their keys and help them arrange for a safe ride home. If you spot an impaired driver on the road, contact the Hawai‘i Police Department at (808) 935-3311 or dial 9-1-1 immediately.