The holiday season traditionally brings lots of parties and gathering where alcohol is consumed and sadly, too many people get behind the wheel after imbibing.

The 2012 Traffic Safety Campaign gets under way from December 14th through January first.

Deschutes County Sheriff Lt. Kevin Dizney says if you get stopped for impaired driving, the punishment can be severe.  "The minimum is an 'A' Misdemeanor crime with a bail of $2500. Certainly those charges increase drastically when you include court time, potential tow fees, time off work and all of the associated difficulties that come with that. Not to mention the havoc that it can could on your driver's record and/or jail time if it becomes a considerable problem."

Dizney says they will employ about 13 additional patrol units to look for impaired drivers; but they appreciate your help by reporting  erratic driving you see on the roads.