Drink. Drive. Go to Jail. APD out in Force this Labor Day Weekend
By Office of Communication
Posted on August 31, 2012, August 31, 2012

The Arlington Police Department wants to remind everyone to enjoy the extended Labor Day weekend in a safe manner. This starts with prevention and being aware of the dangers of driving after consuming alcohol. The legal blood alcohol concentration limit in Texas is .08. However, the only safe option is not to drink before driving. Plan ahead and decide how you will get home - friends, taxi, or staying at the place where you are drinking.

Starting Friday, August 31, at 6 pm, through Tuesday, September 4, Arlington officers will be out in greater numbers ensuring all citizens are celebrating responsibly. During this extended operation, officers will apply for a search warrant to seek blood evidence for anyone who refuses to provide a breath sample if stopped for suspicion of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI).

APD participates in the nationally coordinated impaired driving campaign entitled, "Drink, Drive, Go to Jail." According to statistics released by the Texas Department of Transportation, seven people were killed during the Labor Day holiday period in Texas last year. Officers will look for any driver behavior that makes them suspicious of drinking and driving. It's simple. If you have consumed alcohol, pass the keys to someone who has not been drinking. Your safety and the welfare of others on the roadway depend on responsible decisions.

Have you ever wondered what the penalty is if you are arrested for DWI/DUI? First time offenders who are convicted can spend up to six months in jail. A second conviction could land someone behind bars for up to a year. Three or more convictions can take away someone's freedom, resulting in up to 10 years in prison. These are serious consequences, not to mention the monetary costs and social aspects that can affect people's lives. DWI/DUI arrests and convictions can cost an individual up to $17,000 dollars. This estimate is based on fines, legal fees, impoundment of vehicle, and other costs associated with a DWI/DUI.

During a Tweet-Along (virtual ride-along using Twitter) Friday night starting at 10 p.m., APD will focus on DWI/DUI prevention efforts. Follow us on Twitter @Arlingtonpd for updates. The Department will use hashtag #tweetalong to catalog the night's events. Have a safe weekend.

 Labor Day Weekend

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