In hopes that it will keep drunk drivers off the road, the Minnesota State Patrol announced that they will have a heavier presence on the roads throughout the remainder of the year as they will be conducting extra DUI patrols.
It’s no surprise that the police will be out in extra force throughout the remainder of the year, as the stretch between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is often the deadliest on Minnesota roads. The reason this upcoming stretch is the most dangerous is two-fold; First, the holiday season gives people more opportunities to celebrate with some adult beverages, and winter brings snow and freezing rain, which makes for poor road conditions.
DUI Patrols Through The New Year
The statewide effort to reduce drunk driving will begin November 25 and run through January 2, 2016. More than 300 agencies across the state will be adding extra DUI patrols thanks to additional funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Shakopee Police Officer Vince Stahl said that you should always make plans for a sober ride home before you go meet friends and family, and be cognizant if you’re hosting a party. If someone has had too much to drink, help come up with a solution that doesn’t involve them getting behind the wheel of a car.
“You should not only be planning a sober ride home when you’re going to the bar, but also when you will be consuming alcohol at a friend’s or family’s home, or when attending holiday work parties,” said Officer Stahl. “When hosting a celebration, don’t be afraid to speak up. Find guests a sober ride home or let them sleep at your house. You could be helping save lives that night.”
The upcoming month-and-a-half stretch is probably our busiest of the year, because even with all the warnings in the world, some people are still going to make the decision to drink and drive, or they don’t realize they are over the limit when they get behind the wheel. Regardless of how it occurs, if you end up in the back of a cop car this holiday season, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Appelman Law Firm at (952) 224-2277. We can help get you out of jail and challenge the charges. Call us today for a free consultation.
