by SJC SHERIFF ROB NOU

The state legislature has provided a new tool for law enforcement to deter alcohol and drug impaired drivers.

On Friday, July 22, “Hailey’s Law” becomes effective. This new law requires that vehicles operated by drug- or alcohol-impaired drivers must be impounded for a minimum of 12 hours. So not only does the driver go off to jail, but the car will also “go to jail” when the driver is arrested for DUI. The law says cars MUST BE IMPOUNDED. No discretion is allowed. The cost of the tow and impound are the responsibility of the driver or vehicle owner and must be paid to the tow company before the vehicle can be released.

In our state, about 45 percent of all fatal crashes involve intoxicated drivers. In Washington, that is more than 200 lives lost every year in motor vehicle crashes because of intoxicated drivers. DUI plays a significant role in contributing to crashes throughout San Juan County, whether they result in property damage, injury or death.

Crash data research is showing another emerging trend: cell phone use while driving impairs our reaction time and motor skills equivalent to a clearly intoxicated driver. The laws in Washington prohibit drivers from text messaging or using a cell phone without a hands-free device. Not only are these activities illegal, they are proving very dangerous. Yet people have become so connected that they give no thought to using their phones as they drive. Some people even wave to police officers with the phone, only to continue their conversations as they drive.

For years, the leading cause of death in America for people from ages 4 to 45 has been motor vehicle crashes. A very simple way to make yourself and your passengers safer on the road is to simply wear your safety belt – every time. Wearing your safety belt is also required by law. Yet there is a common attitude in the islands that we don’t need to buckle up because we drive slower and there is less traffic.

There is less traffic and speed limits are lower in the San Juans – compared to the mainland. But most roads are curvy and wildlife – especially deer – are plentiful here. Crashes occur here regularly, whether it’s a rollover or into another vehicle or a ditch. We are not immune in the islands. Even at lower speeds, unrestrained occupants can be seriously injured – injuries that often result in a helicopter transport to a mainland hospital.

Give some thought to safety as you travel. There are consequences far more serious than a traffic ticket.