The revelry of New Year’s Eve is...

The revelry of New Year’s Eve is expected tonight as Orange Countians usher in the new decade. Along with the annual fun and festivities invariably comes those who try to drive home drunk.

To that end the California Highway Patrol has stepped up its enforcement efforts. Local officials say 75% of the department’s available manpower will be on the road tonight. Drunk drivers will have one more obstacle come midnight, as a new state law takes effect that lowers the legal blood alcohol limit from 0.10 to 0.08.

Those too drunk to drive may call (800) 422-4143 from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. nightly tonight and Monday to get a free cab ride from any public place to their home. The free rides are limited to a 20-mile radius with riders picking up the cost for additional miles. The service is co-sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving and CareUnit Hospital of Orange.

Also offering free rides home are Yellow Cab of North Orange County and Orange Coast Yellow Cab under a program sponsored by local beer and wine wholesalers.