Nationwide, approximately 10,000 motorists are killed in alcohol-related crashes annually. The Nevada Highway Patrol is increasing impaired driving enforcement now through Jan. 5 in an effort to reduce that number.

The enforcement is part of the state’s Joining Forces program, consisting of officers from law enforcement agencies statewide, and is designed to keep travelers safe during the holiday season with high-intensity enforcement that zeros in on drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs.

So far this year, Nevada has experienced 59 alcohol-related deaths on its roadways, a decrease of 16 from the same time in 2013.

The Nevada Office of Traffic Safety urges motorists to designate a sober driver, take taxis, stay overnight or call a friend when celebrating the holidays. Make plans to get home prior to leaving for the evening.

Impaired driving statistics:

· Somebody dies every 51 minutes in the U.S. from impaired driving.

· Male drivers ages 26 to 35 are involved in the most impaired driving fatalities.