OHP Cracks Down On DUI's For 4/20 Weekend

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is cracking down on impaired driving on this 4/20, a day frequently associated with marijuana.

State Troopers said the number of deaths from suspected drug-related crashes is on the rise.

So, on Friday, and continuing through this weekend, OHP is going to be on a special lookout for people getting behind the wheel while high.

"We're aware that people are out driving on that day," said Trooper Dwight Durant. 

OHP said 63 people died in suspected drug-related crashes in 2014. In 2016, that number rose to 134, a nearly 115% increase.

"We're also looking for DUI alcohol, and DUI drugs, the opioid epidemic in this country is something that we're seeing on the roadways too, it's causing some crash numbers to go up," Durant said. 

Durant said their main goal is to prevent people from driving under the influence. Friday, troopers stopped cars, talked with drivers, and issued tickets.

"Our three points today was saturation patrols, this DUI checkpoint, and the public awareness," Durant said. 

Durant said for the next two days, Oklahoma and five other states will be out in force trying to put a dent in impaired driving.

"Starting at midnight on 4/20 for 48 hours, they're going to be doing saturation patrols," said Durant. "We're not here to harass people, we're here to make sure that these crash numbers that we’re seeing do not continue to increase, we're here for public safety,”

If you're out and about and see someone that may be driving under the influence, the best thing to do is call 911 OR STAR 55.