Traffic Safety Commission warns against drunk driving
By The Star Staff
Traffic Safety Commission Executive Director Luis Rodríguez Díaz is urging citizens who have plans to enjoy social and vacation activities during the summer to have a designated driver if they drink alcoholic beverages.
“Drunk driving is a crime: You will be arrested, is the message of the Traffic Safety Commission,” Rodríguez Díaz said Monday. “Because of the summer we recognize that many people will be celebrating in social, family and vacation activities. Having a good time has never been a crime, but driving after several drinks has. We are going to avoid misfortunes that mark the life of any Puerto Rican family. The call is a simple one: Help us save lives on the roads.”
The Traffic Law prohibits drivers between the ages of 18 and 20 and motorboat drivers from driving with a concentration of 0.02% alcohol or more in the blood. It also prohibits people over the age of 21 from driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher.
Driving under the influence of alcohol can lead to a fine ranging from $500 plus $50 for every hundredth over the alcohol limit, to serving jail time ranging from 60 days to six months.
This week, a mobilization will be carried out at the island level, where several municipal police forces will participate jointly with the Puerto Rico Traffic Bureau Police. The initiative represents an investment of $193,621.99 in overtime pay.
On average, one beer or one drink puts .03% alcohol in the blood for about two hours. Driving after consuming alcoholic beverages is a crime that can end fatally.
“Respecting traffic laws ensures that we can get home safely,” Rodríguez Díaz said. “Before getting into the motor vehicle, remember the alternatives so that you arrive safely at home. Remember that to drive drunk is a crime. [Violators] will be arrested.”
More information about the Traffic Safety Commission educational campaigns that take place throughout the year can be accessed @seguridadeneltransito, @CSTPR and through www.seguridadeneltransito.com or by calling 787-721-4142.