Summer brings out more drunk drivers

SOUTHWICK, Mass. (WWLP) - Many residents not surprised to learn about more drunk drivers on the road during the summer months.  Feeding Hills Resident, Gary Miller says he sees a difference.

"Not at all so many parties going on especially around the fourth."

But Springfield Resident, Kym Sturdivant says this is the time when there's a lot  going on.

"Right now it's kinda close to all the holidays, summer birthdays and stuff going on and stuff."

That's why Southwick Police Officer Tom Krutka says he sees an increase during this time of year.  Outdoor barbecue's and holiday parties often involve alcohol and those people end up hitting the road ones the celebration is over. He even sees a difference depending on the weather.

"Once the weather breaks its a weekend, today was such a nice day, you can expect an increase."

So how much is too much? Officer Krutka says buzzed driving is enough to get you in trouble... Even one or two drinks, depending on the person, can get you arrested.

"That's just the beginning, if it turns out to be an accident, you effect the person you hit, the family the community, your family your life, financial burden it goes a long way."

And some residents say they expect to run into some drunk drivers on the road.  Enfield Resident, Bill Zimmerman says he has a warning for his kids.

"It's not necessarily their driving they need to worry about its the other people that are on the road, after they have a couple, maybe they're smoking, maybe they're talking on the cell phone, they're just not paying as much attention as they should."