AMARILLO, TEXAS -- So far in 2012, 29 fatalities have happened and 10 of those involved impaired drivers, according to the Amarillo Police Department.
The Police Department said Amarillo has seen a big increase in traffic fatalities, namely those involving impaired drivers. Forty-two percent of the fatalities involved impaired drivers, police said.
During the holiday season, APD along with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), are working to ensure the safety of all motorists.
Thanks to a traffic grant from TxDOT, the police department said extra patrol officers will be out during the holiday season concentrating on impaired drivers, speeding drivers and seat belt violations.
Also in 2012, 13 fatalities involved excessive speed and seven were not wearing seat belts.
A new slogan, "Holiday P.A.S.S." (Persons Appointed to Stay Sober), is being spread to urge residents to not drink and drive.
