Troopers steps up patrols for New Year's

SPOKANE — Heading out to ring in the New Year on Tuesday night, Dec. 31?

The Washington State Patrol has some words of wisdom for you — don’t drink and drive.

The patrol is assigning additional troopers for New Year’s Eve as part of a driving while under the influence emphasis statewide.

According to the patrol, statistics show there’s a 71% increase in drunken driving crashes resulting from New Year’s celebrations, compared to other times of the year.

“Drive sober and watch out for other drivers,” the patrol said in a press release last week.

Troopers will be on the look out for drivers who a...