MORRISTOWN, Tenn. — The Morristown Police Department said it will increase patrols over New Year's Eve to make sure the roads stay safe over the holiday, and to prevent drinking and driving.
The police department said the number of DUI-related crashes that officers responded to has increased by around 23% compared to last year. It said DUI crashes account for around 5% of all crashes that Morristown police officers respond to.
It also said two young people died in 2022 due to driving under the influence, and warned people convicted of DUI in Tennessee face costly fees, court fines, mandatory drug and alcohol treatment and jail time. People convicted of DUI may also need to have ignition interlock devices installed on their cars.
"We encourage you to drive safe and smart. If you have been drinking don’t drive; call a family member, friend, or use an app to call a service to take you where you need to go," MPD said in a release.