Culver City Observer -

With millions of people traveling to visit friends and family over the holidays, the Culver City Police Department is encouraging everyone to have a holiday game plan that includes a designated sober driver.

The police department this week announced it will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs during the pre-Christmas and New Year’s holiday season, Nov. 30-Dec. 14.

During the holidays, there is always an uptick in impaired drivers, CCPD said. During the 2019 Christmas and New Year’s Day holiday periods, there were more drunk-driving related deaths (210) throughout the country than during any other holiday period in 2019.

“We want everyone to enjoy the holidays and be safe,” said Culver City Police Chief Manuel Cid. “The more people who plan ahead and find a safe and sober ride home from holiday parties and gatherings, the safer the holidays will be for everyone.”

Culver City police reminds drivers that a “DUI doesn’t just mean booze.” Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and marijuana can also impair, especially in combination with alcohol and other drugs.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.