Local Task Force Collaborates with Vision Zero

For several years now, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has been working towards their Vision Zero goal. Montana's focus on Vision Zero uses zero as the ultimate goal because the department considers any death on our roadways to be unacceptable. In achieving that vision, MDT works with hundreds of agencies and organizations across the state in a collaborative partnership, implementing strategies to reduce highway crashes, injuries, and fatalities. One of those partners is the Blaine County DUI Task Force.

With that program in mind during a recent interview, Blaine County DUI Task Force Coordinator, Debbie Gomke, stated that the local task force prepares a yearly plan with several goals. "Those goals include preventing driving under the influence; reducing the number of alcohol related traffic accidents; educating the public on the dangers of driving after consuming alcohol beverages or other chemical substances that impair judgment or motor functions; educating the public on the risks of driving under the influence of technology such as texting, using a cell phone while driving, or otherwise manipulating in-vehicle technology-all of which take the driver's focus off the road."

Gomke went on to say that in the past on New Year's Eve, the DUI Task Force, in coordination with the Chinook Police Department and the Blaine County Sheriff's Office, has offered free rides home to those that called. "If that person submitted their name for a drawing, we rewarded one of them with a gift card. Now we offer free rides home to those that call any time. You may have to wait a little bit if the officer/deputy is busy handling a different call, but we will do our best to get you home. During special events, the task force has also awarded gift cards to designated drivers."

In the near future, the Task Force is hoping to have mugs available for distribution to designated drivers. To those with such a mug, local businesses would provide free coffee, pop, or water.

At the last DUI Task Force meeting, Gomke reported that it was decided to recognize an officer who was focused on combatting DUI's. "We felt that along with designated drivers, officers should also be recognized," she said.

For his efforts in combatting DUI's, Gomke presented Deputy Brady Pleninger with a certificate and a Guardian Hands Free Safety Light. The light can be attached to his vest and used while he is on a traffic stop, as another means of safety. On behalf of the DUI Task Force, Gomke thanked Pleninger for his efforts and told him "to keep up the good work."