This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Crime & Safety

Stepped-up DUI Patrols Planned for Halloween Night

Law enforcement agencies throughout the Bay Area will be focusing on getting drunken drivers off the road and setting up traffic safety checkpoints.

Written by Bay City News Service 

Bay Area motorists could get an unexpected scare this Halloween from the flashing lights of a patrol car or at one of the many DUI checkpoints planned throughout the region Thursday, Oct. 31. 

Law enforcement agencies throughout the region are increasing patrols in addition to the checkpoints in an effort to keep drunken drivers off of the roadways. 

Find out what's happening in Belmontwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Police and traffic safety experts say Halloween is a particularly dangerous time for drivers and pedestrians alike as holiday revelers mix with trick-or-treaters. 

"The California Office of Traffic and Safety is strongly encouraging partygoers, parents and children to stay alert and safe this Halloween," OTS Assistant Director Chris Cochran said. 

Find out what's happening in Belmontwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Any Bay Area motorists who choose to drink and get behind the wheel tonight risk running into authorities at checkpoints slated to be set up in various cities between dusk and 4 a.m. Friday, Nov. 1. 

Law enforcement officers are encouraging a range of transportation alternatives for Halloween partiers Oct. 31, from designated sober drivers and public transportation to taxicabs. 

Those looking for a safe ride home between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. in San Francisco can call Luxor Cab at (415) 282-4141. Luxor is partnering with Northern California-based Berg Injury Lawyers to offer rides of to $35 home from any bar or restaurant in the city. 

San Francisco police are advising people to arrange rides for friends, family members and co-workers before drinking begins and to limit the number of drinks they take in or serve tonight. 

Tasty, non-alcoholic drink ideas can be found at www.facebook.com/CaliforniaOTS.   

Copyright © 2013 by Bay City News, Inc. -- Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.

More from Belmont