YOUNGSTOWN Anti-DUI campaign begins

The number of traffic fatalities in 2002 are up in Ohio and Mahoning County over 2001.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Mahoning Safe Communities and local law enforcement, along with area hospitals, have joined to spread the word about the "You Drink & amp; Drive. You Lose" campaign.
Throughout the holiday season until Jan. 5, local and state law enforcement officials will be arrest and prosecute impaired drivers to the fullest extent of the law, said Tracy Styka, Mahoning Safe Communities coordinator.
Statistics
The number of traffic fatalities in Ohio so far in 2002 are up 40 over 2001, from 894 to 934; and as of Dec. 12, 2002, in Mahoning County, there have been six more fatalities than the 23 recorded in 2001, Styka said.
"There will be no warnings. Our message is simple -- You drink and drive. You lose," Styka said. "Violators can lose their licenses, time from their jobs, and lose money in high fines and court costs as well as possibly face imprisonment for repeat offenses, assault and vehicular manslaughter.
"Refuse a blood alcohol concentration test and you can lose your license on the spot and have your car impounded."
Mahoning Safe Communities says if you plan to drink, don't drive or else choose a designated driver; report impaired drivers by calling 1-800-GRAB-DUI or cellular DUI; and buckle-up every time you are in a car.
The "You Drink & amp; Drive. You Lose." campaign was launched in December 1999.