UHP works to keep roads safe with DUI blitz

In an attempt to instill safe behavior in Utah drivers, the Utah Highway Patrol carried out a DUI blitz over Easter weekend.

Across the state, a crew of about 174 officers scoured the roadways, searching specifically for impaired drivers, eventually arresting 76 individuals for investigation into charges of impaired driving. UHP spokesman Jeff Nigbur said that officers stopped 1,565 vehicles during the blitz.

"We feel this was an extremely successful operation," Nigbur said. "The public got the message, and we've been hearing positive results from across the state."

Nigbur said that some counties reported no alcohol-related accidents or routine crashes, adding that many bars had taxi services waiting in bar parking lots reminding patrons the blitz was on.

In an effort to make Utah's roads safer, UHP will continue to blitz on specific offenses every month. Nigbur said upcoming blitzes will target aggressive driving, seat belt use and DUIs.

In previous months, there have been a number of high-profile accidents caused by DUIs, and Nigbur said reminders like this blitz can keep safety a top priority in the public's mind.

E-MAIL: cnorlen@desnews.com