Highway Patrol urges responsible partying
As Kansans travel to New Year's Eve parties, the Kansas Highway Patrol reminds motorists not to drink and drive while intoxicated.
During the New Year's holiday, officers will crack down on impaired driving by aggressively patrolling roadways.
In Kansas, drivers with a breath alcohol content of 0.08 percent or more face a minimum fine of $500, 48 hours in jail, and a 30-day suspension of driving privileges.
Repeat offenders receive stiffer penalties, including fines up to $2,500, up to a year of imprisonment and permanent loss of their driver's licenses.
During the 30-hour holiday period last year, the highway patrol made 39 DUI arrests.
The patrol offers these safety tips:
— When a person has been drinking, he or she should ask a sober friend to drive or should spend the night.
— As a host of a party, pour alcohol lightly, provide non-alcoholic beverages, and serve plenty of food. Encourage guests to use designated drivers, and prepare space for people to spend night. Never be afraid to take keys away from a friend.
