Drunk driving and other offenses subject to holiday crackdown

New Yorkers will generally wait to consider hiring a legal professional to provide defense for drunk driving offenses and other traffic violations until they have been charged. Obviously, this makes sense. However, for people who are heading out during the holidays and through the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations, it is important to understand that law enforcement will be out in earnest during a crackdown on drivers who are perceived to be under the influence. Regardless of whether the person had been drinking or not, it is imperative to understand the potential consequences of DWI and know which law firm can help in crafting a defense.

A national campaign known as “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” is ongoing and New York State law enforcement will take part. This program will continue through the first day of the new year. People are being entreated to be responsible behind the wheel. Along with suspected drunk drivers, law enforcement will also be on the lookout for other infractions.

Distracted driving, failing to wear seatbelts, drivers who do not adhere to the “Move Over Law” in which drivers are told to be cautious when emergency vehicles are in the area, and underage drinking will all be part of this enforcement effort. Officers will be in both marked and unmarked vehicles. In 2017, there were more than 40,000 tickets issued. Nearly 13,400 were for speeding violations; more than 1,200 were for distracted driving; and 571 went to people who did not adhere to the “Move Over Law.” More than 600 people were charged with DWI.

Drivers who are out and about during the holidays might attend parties and even have a drink. Circumstances can lead to them facing allegations of DWI offenses even if they were not legally under the influence or the situation was not one that warranted an arrest. Since law enforcement is out specifically looking for drivers who are committing drunk drivingand other traffic violations, people caught up in this crackdown should understand their rights and be prepared to call a legal professional who can assess the case and help those confronted by the penalties for DWI, distracted driving and other moving violations.