With the holidays at hand and an increased number of private and work-related gatherings being held there is a concerted effort by county, city and state law enforcement agencies to see that area roads are safe and free from impaired drivers.

Officers also are making a concerted effort to make sure that drivers and passengers alike are adhering to state seatbelt laws.

According to Rush County Sheriff Jeff Sherwood, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious problem and seems to increase each holiday season.

In recent weeks a marked increase has been noticed locally in the number of arrests of those behind the wheel of their vehicle while impaired.

If arrested and found guilty impaired motorists will face not only monetary fines, but also will see an increase in their insurance premiums and sanctions on their driving privileges.

“Drinking and driving don’t mix. Our officers are always looking for impaired drivers on county roads. The coming weeks will be no different. There have been a number of serious accidents and fatalities on Rush County roads this year, and although not all were alcohol related, that still is a concern,” Sherwood said.

He went on to say that officers in his department have made more DUI arrests in recent months and, as a result, there has been a decrease in alcohol-related accidents during the same time span.

“I feel the two, increased enforcement and a reduction in accidents, are definitely related. Drivers are slowing down and that is a major difference,” Sherwood said.

Rushville Police officers also will be very proactive in taking those who choose to drive under the influence off city streets, not only during the holiday weekend but every day.

In recent weeks, local and county law enforcement agencies also have stepped up efforts to enforce posted speed limits as well as seatbelt and child restraint laws.

This is being done in hopes of making the holiday season safe and sane for drivers, their passengers and pedestrians.

According to law enforcement officers, this time of year there is an increase in the number of drivers on city streets and county roads. The month of holiday parties and family trips forces law enforcement to increase its presence on city and county roads as well.

Travel during the holiday season generally puts more family members in the same vehicle, thus increasing the potential for an even more devastating accident.

“Generally speaking, the safest place during an accident is inside the vehicle. I advocate that drivers and passengers alike buckle up when driving,” Sherwood said.