The SC Highway Patrol unveils three new cars to be used in a crack down.
Read more: Local, Crime, State, Dui, Drunk Driving, Dodge Chargers, Patrol Cars, Highway Patrol
COLUMBIA -- The South Carolina Highway Patrol is cracking down on drunk drivers. They are unveiling three patrol cars that will be used as crime fighting tools.
Last year, patrolmen arrested 1,217 impaired drivers. In an effort to keep cracking down on drunk drivers, the Highway patrol added some major muscle to the force. The new patrol cars were added on Tuesday, for DUI enforcement.
"It's hopefully going to bring awareness to the communities we're in, that people will think twice before they consume too much alcohol and leave an establishment," said Trooper Gerald Rothell.
"A first time offender will, statistic wise, drive up to 87 times before they get caught," said M.A.D.D. spokeswoman Mary-Ann Haynes.
That's 87 times too many, according to Haynes.
"You'll get hurt, somebody else will get hurt," said Haynes. "You have to realize when you get out there drunk on the road, not only may you kill someone but you'll go to jail."
It's an issue that continues to plague the Palmetto State. In 2009, South Carolina was second in the nation for DUI related deaths. Highway Patrolman Gerald Rothell hopes the new cars will be a reminder not to take chances.
"It's really going to make people know that we are out and about," said Trooper Rothell.
According to state statistics more than 40 percent of all traffic fatalities were alcohol related. It's a problem community members and troopers are looking to pump the brakes on.
"It's really common sense that if you drink, don't drive," said Haynes.
It's a strong message for those who even consider drinking and getting behind the wheel.
