SEATTLE, WA — Throughout the month of December, the Seattle Police Department’s Traffic Section will significantly increase patrols across the city to target impaired drivers, with a strong focus on preventing serious injuries and fatalities during the holiday season.
Officers will be deployed every night on busy streets and in popular nightlife areas as part of a proactive enforcement effort aimed at stopping impaired drivers before crashes occur. For the first time since 2019, the department is also reintroducing a dedicated DUI emphasis team.
The specialized team will operate nightly from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m. throughout the city for the entire month.
“It is a top priority for the Seattle Police Department and the Traffic Section to identify and safely detain impaired drivers who put our communities at risk,” said Traffic Section Capt. Randy Ward. “Our hand-selected team for this year’s emphasis are all highly trained, experienced, and motivated police officers with a passion for this work. They will sacrifice time with their loved ones over the holiday season to focus on this critical effort.”
In addition to nightly patrols, Seattle Police will join Washington State Patrol, Kent Police, and other King County agencies on December 19 for the annual “Night of 1000 Stars” enforcement event. The coordinated operation focuses on enhanced traffic safety and removing impaired drivers from the road.
The effort is part of the City of Seattle’s “Vision Zero” initiative and the Washington State Traffic Safety Commission’s “Target Zero” campaign, both aimed at eliminating traffic-related fatalities.
Police reminded the public that it is illegal to drive or be in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
“We hope our community makes safe driving choices this holiday season,” said Sgt. Tom Heller. “Make a plan, use a rideshare or taxi, or assign a designated driver. Pro tip: the designated driver needs to be actually sober—not just the least intoxicated person in the car.”
Seattle police hitting streets this month watching for impaired drivers:https://t.co/DLHlbrQPK0
— Seattle Police Department (@SeattlePD) December 3, 2025