Sunday is April 20th, a day that has become known as an “unofficial holiday” for marijuana smokers. LPD Public Information Officer Erika Thomas says they will be conducting an impaired driving enforcement effort Friday through Easter Sunday.
“Additional officers will be deployed outside their normal shifts to identify and remove from the road drivers under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs.” In Nebraska, driving under the influence of any impairing substance is illegal and poses a serious risk to all road users.
“Driving under the influence of drugs carries the same consequences as driving under the influence of alcohol,” Thomas says. “A first-time DUI conviction results in fines, license suspension and possibly jail time.”
She says drivers who cause serious or fatal injuries to another while driving impaired face the risk of felony charges and substantial imprisonment. This effort is made possible through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office, reinforcing LPD’s ongoing commitment to preventing impaired driving and ensuring public safety.
Thomas says they are urging all drivers to make responsible choices. “If you plan to drink or use any impairing substances, arrange for a sober ride, whether through a designated driver, ride-share service or public transportation.”