BROOKINGS – The South Dakota State University Criminal Justice Club will hold a DUI Awareness Fair Wednesday from noon to 3 p.m. in the parking lot on the east side of the University Student Union.
University Police Department Officer Adam Lehnertz said the event looks to educate the public about the dangers and costs of drunken driving. Information on items ranging from DUI’s medical expenses to legal fees and criminal charges will be available. In addition, information will be provided on alternative transportation methods.
“I wanted to do something community oriented and have it be educational,” Lehnertz said, noting a college in California is the only institution to have held a similar event in recent years, according to his research.
Thanks to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, UPD and the Brookings Police Department, participants can wear impairment goggles and attempt to complete a driving course in a golf cart. Once the individual has been stopped or completed the course, an officer will conduct parts of the standardized field sobriety tests.
“This is an important educational opportunity for students to understand the effects of driving, whether it’s after one drink or several drinks,” said Lehnertz. “In addition, the law enforcement officers will also receive valuable training that will help them in situations where someone has been drinking and driving.”
The S.D. Highway Patrol is also providing a rollover simulator, which provides individuals an opportunity to experience a rollover in a controlled environment.
In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the University Student Union.
