05/24/24 With traffic fatalities expected to increase 100% by 2024, police urge public to drive carefully over Memorial Day weekend

Hawaiian Police Department
Transport Services Section
Program Manager Torey Keltner
Phone: (808) 961-2305

Media release

With 18 traffic fatalities so far in 2024, a 100% increase over the same period last year when nine deaths occurred, Hawaii Police are urging drivers to drive safely and sober over Memorial Day weekend.

Driving under the influence of drugs continues to be a problem on our island highways. In recent years, drugs have been a factor in 50 percent of Hawaii’s traffic fatalities, with 38 of the 76 traffic fatalities in 2021-2023 being drug-related.
“There is absolutely no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs,” said Torey Keltner, program manager for the Hawaii Police Department’s Traffic Services Division. “It’s simple: If you’re impaired, don’t drive. Period.”

Hawaii Police will be out in force this holiday weekend, on the lookout for drunk drivers.

The Hawaii Island Police Department reminds the public of these safety tips.

● Even simple medications like cold medicine or over-the-counter sleeping pills can impair your ability to drive, which could lead to an arrest for drunk driving. Impaired? Don’t drive.

● If you plan to go to a party or event, plan ahead and designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride-share service. Someone under the influence of drugs or alcohol should not make decisions about driving, so it’s important to have a plan.

● DUI violations do not only apply to drunk driving. Remember, any impairment, including drugs, is illegal when operating a vehicle. If you are impaired by any substance, do not drive.

The costs of driving under the influence of alcohol

● On average, a drunk driving conviction can cost you up to $10,000 in legal fees, fines, court costs, lost wages, higher insurance premiums, etc.

● If you are caught driving under the influence of substances that impair your ability to drive, you could face a prison sentence. Imagine having to explain that to your friends and family or your employer.

● Driving under the influence of drugs can result in the loss of your license and vehicle. This may prevent you from getting to work, resulting in lost wages and possibly loss of your job.

Plan before you celebrate

● If you have chosen to take a negligent substance, do not drive. Passengers should never ride with a negligent driver. If you think a driver may be negligent, do not get in the car.

● Do you have a friend who wants to drive while under the influence of drugs? Take the keys from them and make sure they get home safely. Don’t worry about offending anyone – they will thank you later.

● If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact police at (808) 935-3311.

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