Drive Sober

Stay sharp. Stay safe.

Data trends

DUI crashes have been increasing in Washington state since 2019.

Most people in Washington (78%) make the responsible choice by never driving impaired.

Alcohol and drugs contribute significantly to fatalities. In 2023, 167 people lost their lives on King County’s roadways, the highest ever recorded.

Drivers under the influence of two or more substances, or “polydrug,” is the most common type of impairment in King County.

The law

It’s illegal to drive or be in physical control (having the keys in the ignition of a parked car) of a motor vehicle while under the influence of:

  • Intoxicating liquor with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or greater
  • Young drivers must have a BAC of under 0.00% and 0 ng/ml of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
  • Cannabis or marijuana with a blood concentration of THC of 5.00 ng/ml
  • Any combination of alcohol, THC, or drugs regardless of the concentration
  • Over the counter medications if they create an intoxicating effect 

The Penalty

Those arrested for DUI can expect fines of at least $10,000. They can also expect attorney’s fees, additional fines, court costs, lost time at work, higher insurance rates, car towing, repairs, and more.

If the DUI results in a collision, drivers could face serious life-altering consequences like:

  • Charge of manslaughter for a fatality
  • License revocation
  • Ignition interlock devices
  • Job loss
  • and other consequences

Plan ahead for a safe ride

  • Designate a sober driver
  • Be prepared to call a rideshare or taxi
  • Use public transportation
  • Plan to stay over where you are
  • Leave your car at home or park it where you won’t need to move it

If someone else is impaired

  • Arrange for or offer a ride

  • Arrange for the person to stay where they are

  • Offer your couch for the night

  • Engage someone else to help 


If someone is driving erratically

  • If you encounter someone swerving in and out of their lane or driving erratically, call 911. When speaking with dispatchers, they will want to know:
    • Make and model of the car
    • License plate number
    • Route and direction being traveled
    • Description of the driver

Campaigns

Coming soon