Holiday DUI Campaigns and Checkpoints Stepped Up for Christmas and New Year's

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration along with the Ad Council are cranking up their efforts in a federal campaign to encourage people to avoid getting behind the wheel even after a couple drinks. The "Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving" campaign is seeking to reduce the number of holiday DUI arrests and DUI accidents. And as these campaigns start running into full gear, so too do statewide checkpoints and patrols.

The Century Council has said that for 2011, Florida saw 716 people killed in a DUI accident, and 43,784 people were arrested for a DUI that same year. The days that witness Christmas and New Year's festivities are some of the days with the most DUI-related fatalities of the year; this also correlates with an increased number of DUI arrests. Every jurisdiction can run 15 to 20 checkpoints throughout Florida, and with holiday shopping to get done and vacation travels to be taken, police officers are going to be on keen alert for any drivers who appear to be under the influence.

Some tips to avoid an arrest this holiday would include making sure that non-alcoholic drinks are served at parties as well, and that a sober driver is designated before the party starts. It would be best to choose a drink limit before you start as well, and to stick to it, despite a friend's invitation to drink more.

If you have been arrested for a DUI this holiday season, do not wait to contact Thomas & Paulk, P.A. If you work with a Tampa DUI lawyer from our firm, you would be working with someone who is fiercely dedicated to defending our clients' every single right. Find out how one of our legal advocates may be able to protect your reputation and future when you call us today!