Halloween is next weekend, and for many the scariest part of the holiday may be a DUI stop. That’s because law enforcement agencies throughout Volusia County and the state of Florida ramp up their focus on arresting motorists who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Like most other holidays, Halloween sees a significant increase in the number of DUI-related arrests and injuries – which is why police increase their efforts to arrests impaired motorists.
In the past, Florida law enforcement has been active in its involvement with highly publicized increased DUI enforcement during Halloween. This includes participation in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which often runs through Halloween weekend. This period of increased enforcement typically consists of the following tactics:
- Increased visibility of law enforcement officers and informing the public of planned crack-downs on drunk or drugged driving through news releases.
- Increased saturation patrols consisting of more police focusing on impaired drivers at locations and times known for higher rates of DUI accidents or arrests.
- DUI checkpoints set up at locations with high rates of DUI accidents. Times and locations of DUI checkpoints are typically announced in advanced by law enforcement and are crucial.
Having handled many DUI cases on behalf of Florida residents throughout the years, we’ve represented many clients who were arrested during weekends, holidays, and periods of increased enforcement. While we understand the reasoning behind the enhanced enforcement, we have also seen how the pressure they create can cause law enforcement officers to cut corners, violate drivers’ rights, and become overzealous in their efforts to make arrests and boost their numbers.
Regardless of the exact circumstances surrounding an arrest, anyone charged with DUI should understand that they face serious consequences, especially if they have prior DUI convictions or if aggravating circumstances are involved, such as accidents, injuries, or high BAC levels.
If you plan on celebrating Halloween with a few drinks, our Daytona Beach DUI attorneys would like to remind you of the increased law enforcement presence. Should you or someone you love be arrested for DUI during the period of increased enforcement, or at any other time, our team of former prosecutors is ready to respond immediately to your call for help.
Contact us to learn more about your charges and how our DUI defense lawyers can help.