Lake Havasu program aims to curb OUI violations
LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. — On March 1, in anticipation of the arrival of spring breakers, the Lake Havasu Marine Association will launch a voluntary Designated Operator program to curb Operator Under Influence (OUI) violations, according to a release from the association.
Boat and PWC rental companies will require teetotaling Designated Operators to be identified by wristbands, and renters will sign a statement agreeing to forfeiture of their deposits – often as much as $1,000 – if cited for OUI. Posters and stickers, public service announcements and social media posts will read, “Sober Skippers Rock.” The designated operators wearing wristbands will receive free soft drinks when visiting participating businesses.
“Spring breakers are a huge economic influence here for a town that depends on tourism. We want these college students to have a good time, be responsible, and have one member in the group who agrees to remain sober,” Jim Salscheider, executive director of the Lake Havasu Marine Association, said in the release.
Six separate law enforcement agencies are behind the effort, including the Lake Havasu City Police Department.
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