With nearly 5,000 alcohol-related crashes in Arizona in 2015 leading to nearly 300 fatalities and over 3,000 injuries, alcohol-related crashes accounted for just over 4 percent of all crashes last year. Despite accounting for such a small percentage of all crashes, alcohol-related crashes accounted for nearly one third of all fatal crashes in 2015. Obviously driving under the influence is a major issue, so you can expect police to crack down hard on people arrested for DUIs.
Now that the summer months are in full swing and students are back home from school, there is likely to be an upswing in holiday parties, graduation parties, and various other celebrations that may encourage alcohol consumption. While police officers stay vigilant throughout the entire year, they are also aware that the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is considered the “100 deadliest days” for teen drivers.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 6 percent of teens aged 16 to 17, and over 15 percent of 18 to 20 year olds were reported to have driven under the influence. With 9 of the 10 deadliest days falling in those 100 days in the summer, everyone can expect an increase in police officers cracking down on drunk drivers.
Some of the main ways that police officers will increase their efforts in catching drunk drivers are by increasing the number of officers on patrol, and by setting up DUI checkpoints on major roads.
While the total number of DUI arrests in Arizona has consistently gone down over the past four years, don’t expect the increased number of officers on patrol to take it easy on anyone showing key signs of driving drunk, which include:
- Speeding
- Swerving
- Unnecessary braking
Along with patrolling officers, summer drivers need to be on the lookout for an increase in DUI checkpoints. Police departments are all but guaranteed to have both an increased number of officers on the road and multiple DUI checkpoints set up on holiday weekends. The easiest solution to avoiding any trouble is to not drink and drive, but be prepared to be stopped even if you are completely sober.
The summer months are filled with beautiful weather and relaxing nights, but if you find yourself charged with a DUI, your best option may be to contact a qualified DUI attorney. At MayesTelles PLLC, our Phoenix DUI lawyers have the knowledge, skills, and training necessary to provide the strong legal defense you need. Contact us today though our website, or give us a call at (602) 428-7104.