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State Patrol: Extra DWI Patrol This Weekend

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The State Patrol will have extra DWI patrols on the roads this weekend.

They'll be looking for drunk drivers in the counties with highest numbers of alcohol-related crashes and deadly accidents.

Lt. Eric Roeske, of Minnesota State Patrol, said there are many ways for people to avoid drinking and driving.

"If you don't make a smart decision, you're going to end up paying the price," he said in a press release.

The 13 counties that will see the extra enforcement are: Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, St. Louis, Dakota, Wright, Olmsted, Rice, Washington, Stearns, Sherburne, Scott and Carver.

From 2008-2010, there were 202 alcohol-related deaths and 462 serious alcohol-related injuries in those counties, the State Patrol said. However, alcohol-related deaths and DWI arrests have dropped in recent years. Authorities say education and enforcement are contributing to this trend.

Drivers will also see extra signs this weekend reminding them to drive safely.

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