Recent statistics have shown an uptick in DWIs and impaired driving incidents in Broome County over the last two weeks. As Thanksgiving is one of the most concerning times of the year on the road, Broome County is ramping up patrols to prevent DWI-related incidents. 

If you are drinking, have a designated driver to get you home, if someone shouldn't be driving, take their keys,  and if you suspect a driver is impaired, call 911. 

Operating a vehicle while under the influence of prescription medication, such as marijuana and marijuana gummies, is also illegal. 

Throughout the county, drivers will see increased sobriety checkpoints and a jump in awareness of incidents. 

In 2022, New York saw both a 43% increase in driving while intoxicated fatality rates and a 40% increase in operating a motor vehicle impaired compared to 2019.  

"All of us have heard the horror stories of what happens when one gets behind the wheel, when they shouldn't be," Broome County District Attorney Paul Battisti said. "Let's not hear that anymore. Let's not hear any more stories. That's not create anymore. This holiday season. It's simple. Be responsible. Think about others. Have a plan."