As New Year’s Eve approaches, Iowans are reminded to celebrate and drive safely.

Washington County Sheriff Jared Schneider tells KCII News, “We’ll be out on the roadways to keep you safe during this holiday weekend. Please help us by remembering to drive safely, be patient in getting to your destination, don’t drink and drive, don’t text and drive, and always wear your seat belt.” Welcome the new year in safely and have a designated driver if you plan on consuming alcohol. Under Iowa law for a first-time offender of driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 or more, the crime is a serious misdemeanor that can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of $1,250 with a minimum jail time of 48 hours.