Suffolk County officials announced increased police patrols over the Thanksgiving holiday, and a partnership with Lyft in an effort to deter people from getting behind the wheel under the influence this holiday season.
County Executive Steve Bellone said residents can use a discount code when taking advantage of the ride-sharing service Lyft to get home safely. With the code SUFFOLKCTY2019 users can save $10. The code can be used twice by a customer in Suffolk between midnight on Wednesday and midnight on Saturday.
Uber is also offering a promo code, SAFERIDENY19, for a free ride worth up to $10 starting at 9 p.m. on Wednesday and ending at 3 a.m. on Thursday.
“We have seen far too many needless D.W.I. tragedies that end lives, rip families apart, or result in debilitating injuries,” Mr. Bellone said in a statement. “Driving on our roads is a privilege, not a right. Anyone who makes the irresponsible decision to drive while intoxicated will be held accountable.”
The Suffolk County Police Department, among other local agencies, will step up patrols and set up checkpoints to enforce D.W.I.-related laws. During last year’s Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from Thanksgiving Eve through the following Monday morning, Suffolk police arrested 35 people on drunken-driving charges.
“While we encourage people to enjoy the holiday, we are again asking people to act responsibly,” Suffolk Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart said. “Drinking and driving is a preventable crime. It is not a mistake — it is an irresponsible choice that can often have deadly consequences. We will target drivers under the influence to hold those accountable for their actions.”
Also this weekend, Suffolk police officers will have “an increased presence” at shopping malls and downtown business districts where larger than normal crowds are expected for Black Friday, the county said in a statement on Tuesday.