NEW YORK -- With the holiday season underway, State Police continue their crack down on drinking and driving. From now until January, drivers can expect to see increased police presence on the roads, with DWI checkpoints scattered throughout the region.

Despite a recent decline in alcohol related motor vehicle crashes statewide, police say they see a spike in alcohol related crashes this time of year, especially with the snowy weather.

"We want to make sure that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season, and that's why you'll see us in force out there, working throughout the holiday 24/7, to keep the roadways as safe as possible," said Trooper Michael Swarthout, NYSP Traffic Safety Officer.

Last year, more than 8,000 crashes statewide were alcohol-related.