Avoid a DUI on New Year’s by having a driving plan, Hawai‘i Island police encourage

With New Year’s Eve celebrations around the corner, Hawai‘i Island police is reminding the public to have a plan to avoid driving under the influence.

The department is promoting the campaign, “If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. Drive High, Get a DUI.”

“Most people don’t drive impaired because they understand how dangerous it is,” said Torey Keltner, Traffic Services Section Program Manager for the Hawai‘i Police Department. “Impaired driving is illegal and can have catastrophic effects on your life.”

Keltner said officers will be out in full force monitoring and enforcing impaired driving laws.

Violating Hawai‘i’s drug-impaired driving laws can lead to severe consequences, including hefty costs. On average, a DUI can cost more than $10,000 in attorney fees, fines, court costs, lost wages, higher insurance premiums and more.

Drug impairment remains a serious issue on Hawai‘i Island roads, with drugs contributing to 54% of traffic fatalities over the last four years, according to police. Between 2021 and 2024, 56 out of 104 traffic deaths showed that drug impairment was a primary factor in the crash.

Police say many studies show that marijuana impairs reaction times, cognitive abilities and makes it harder for a driver to stay in their lane.

“Even over-the-counter and prescription medications can impair driving ability, so read the label and talk to your doctor,” police stated. “If you’ve used anything that impairs your driving ability, do what the vast majority do, don’t drive high. Instead, arrange for a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare service to get home safely.”

If you are unable to drive, give your keys to a sober driver.

If you spot an impaired driver on the road, contact the Hawai‘i Police Department at 808-935-3311 or dial 911 immediately.