–Law Enforcement officials across Iowa, including in Kossuth County, will be conducting extra patrols through the holidays looking for impaired drivers. Iowa State Patrol trooper Paul Gardner, who’s based in Fort Dodge, says their goal is to make sure everyone arrives at their destinations safely.
The effort is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s high-visibility campaign that runs into early January. Drivers are being reminded of the dangers of impaired driving, which statistics show impaired driving plays a role in nearly 40% of fatal automobile accidents nationwide.
Along with keeping an eye out for impaired drivers, Gardner says they will be looking for distracted drivers who may be using a cell phone.
He says the fine will be $170 for motorists who are caught using a cell phone that’s not in hands-free mode.
