Most years DUI arrests jump up during the holiday season in Spokane. Many people take time off from work around the holidays. This can lead to an extra drink when they’re out for dinner or with friends at a local bar. Other folks might to travel to where they grew up to visit family for Christmas or a New Year’s Eve. All these activities lead to more people driving after consuming alcohol.
The Washington State Patrol’s DUI and Impaired Driving Unit often conducts emphasis patrols starting the week of Thanksgiving and running well into the new year. During an emphasis patrol, there are extra law enforcement officers on duty. Many of these officers have additional training related to recognizing and processing impaired drivers. These officers focus on traffic stops for aggressive driving like weaving in and out of traffic, crossing lane lines, driving without headlights and other moving violations.
Spreading the word about these emphasis patrols helps raise awareness. They also remind folks to plan ahead to have a sober driver before starting an evening of festivities. Uber, Lyft and taxi services are great options, if you’ve had too much to drink. As always, the best plan is to plan ahead!
There is on big exception to the general rule of “more DUI arrests around the holidays.” And that’s severe winter weather. When temperatures plummet or there’s heavy snowfall many folks choose to stay home. Risking a weather-related auto accident on icy, snow-covered roadways just isn’t worth it. During these bad weather events law enforcement officers must focus on responding to collisions and traffic management instead of conducting traffic stops that could lead to DUI investigations.
It is important to know your rights in case you are stopped by law enforcement and find yourself under investigation for DUI. If you or someone you care about have been charged with DUI, call Cooney Law Offices today. We can help!