The Rising DUII Numbers in Bend Oregon

 

 A Look at the Impact of Brewery Culture, Population Growth, and Outdoor Recreation

Bend, Oregon, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, world-class outdoor recreation, and thriving craft beer scene. Over the past decade, the city has experienced rapid growth, attracting a new wave of residents drawn to its outdoor lifestyle, mountain trails, and riverfront views. At the same time, Bend has become a premier craft beer destination, boasting one of the highest numbers of breweries per capita in the United States. While these trends have contributed to Bend’s vibrant culture and economy, they may also be linked to another growing concern—DUII (Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants) arrests.

A Growing City with a Growing Issue

Bend’s population has surged in recent years, with thousands of new residents moving to the area for its high quality of life, outdoor activities, and small-town charm. With this influx has come an increase in traffic, nightlife, and unfortunately, impaired driving incidents.

In 2024, the Bend Police Department reported 587 DUII arrests—a decrease from 619 in 2023 and 699 in 2022, but still a significant number. During the last two weeks of 2024 alone, there were 28 DUII arrests, some involving extreme intoxication, crashes, and drivers traveling the wrong way on one-way streets.

While law enforcement continues to crack down on impaired driving, the question remains: What’s fueling these high DUII numbers?

Bend’s Brewery Culture: A Double-Edged Sword?

Bend’s beer and food scene is a major draw for both locals and tourists. With over 30 craft breweries—including nationally recognized names like Deschutes Brewery, Crux Fermentation Project, and 10 Barrel Brewing—the city is a paradise for beer lovers. Many residents and visitors enjoy stopping at breweries after a long day of hiking, skiing, or mountain biking, a ritual known as après culture.

While this culture is largely positive, celebrating craft brewing and social connections, it also increases the risk of impaired driving. Unlike in larger cities with robust public transit options, Bend has limited rideshare availability and no late-night bus system. If people drink at a brewery located miles from their home or hotel, they may be more likely to take the risk of driving rather than waiting for a ride.

Bend’s reputation as a craft beer haven also attracts large-scale events, such as Bend Brewfest and Oktoberfest, where alcohol consumption is central. These events bring thousands of visitors, many of whom may not be familiar with the city’s roads or law enforcement presence, further increasing the risk of DUIIs.

Tourism, Outdoor Recreation, and the “Après” Lifestyle

Bend’s outdoor recreation scene plays a major role in local drinking culture. Many locals and visitors enjoy heading to breweries, bars, or restaurants after a day of:

• Skiing or snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor
• Mountain biking on the Phil’s Trail system
• Floating down the Deschutes River
• Hiking in the Cascade Mountains

For many, grabbing a beer afterward is part of the experience. However, this culture of post-adventure drinking, combined with limited transportation options, can contribute to DUII numbers. Tourists, in particular, may not be as aware of the dangers of driving after drinking or the enforcement efforts by Bend police.

Additionally, many outdoor enthusiasts have moved to Bend over the last decade, attracted by the lifestyle and work-from-home opportunities. The combination of a younger, active demographic and an established drinking culture has created a unique environment where social drinking is widely accepted—sometimes at the cost of responsible decision-making when it comes to driving.

A Changing Legal Landscape: Oregon’s Expanding DUII Laws

Another factor influencing DUII statistics is Oregon’s recent expansion of DUII laws. As of 2024, the state now considers impairment from over-the-counter and prescription medications under DUII laws, not just alcohol or controlled substances. This means that even if a driver hasn’t had a drink, they could still be charged with a DUII if an officer determines they are impaired due to medication.

This broader definition could partly explain why DUII numbers remain high, even as public awareness about drunk driving continues to grow. The expanded law reflects a shift in enforcement efforts aimed at reducing all forms of impairment behind the wheel, not just those caused by alcohol or recreational drugs.

Law Enforcement and DUII Prevention Efforts

The Bend Police Department has stepped up enforcement in recent years, conducting 11,666 traffic stops in 2024, averaging 32 stops per day. Officers regularly patrol areas with high bar and brewery traffic, and checkpoints are sometimes set up to deter impaired driving.

Local authorities encourage alternative transportation options, such as:

• Uber & Lyft (though availability can be limited at peak times)
• Bend Dial-a-Ride
• Safe Ride Home programs during events like Bend Brewfest

However, rideshare shortages, longer wait times, and Bend’s car-centric infrastructure still make it tempting for some to drive home after drinking.

What Can Be Done to Reduce DUII Numbers?

Reducing DUII incidents in Bend requires a combination of education, enforcement, and expanded transportation options. Some potential solutions include:

• More public transit options, especially at night
• Increased awareness campaigns about the risks of impaired driving
• More designated driver incentives at breweries and bars
• Harsher penalties for repeat DUII offenders

Additionally, business owners, law enforcement, and community leaders can work together to promote responsible drinking and ensure safe alternatives for getting home.

Finding a Safer Path Forward

Bend’s growing population, thriving craft beer scene, and outdoor recreation lifestyle all contribute to its unique character—but they also create challenges when it comes to impaired driving. While DUII arrests have declined slightly in recent years, they remain a serious concern.

As Bend continues to evolve, finding sustainable ways to balance its vibrant social scene with responsible drinking and safer transportation options will be key to making the city safer for everyone.

For now, if you’re heading out to enjoy one of Bend’s many breweries or restaurants, plan ahead for a safe ride home—whether it’s through a rideshare app, a designated driver, or a taxi service. One decision could mean the difference between a fun night out and a life-changing mistake.