2013 Nationwide DUI Crackdown Begins Today

Law enforcement officials from across the country are readying to be out in full force over the next several weeks to help reduce drunk driving.

Beginning today, the nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” program will kick off – to include high-visibility enforcement, high-profile events and create a comprehensive campaign to curb drunk driving through the Labor Day holiday weekend.

The focus of the DUI crackdown is a common one during holiday periods. With the long Labor Day weekend coming up, it’s only natural that law enforcement agencies want to start their enforcement efforts sooner rather than later.

Arizona has a strict “zero-tolerance” BAC law. For example, if you have one beer with your meal and the officer believes you to be “impaired to the slightest degree,” and you blew a 0.02, you could still get a DUI.

Remember that “intoxicated” driving applies not only to alcohol but to drugs as well. You not only need to watch out for what you drink, but also anything else that you may ingest into your system. These days, drugged driving DUIs are rivaling drunken driving DUIs. This includes driving while high on substances like cocaine and marijuana, as well as over-the-counter and prescription medications like sleeping pills, antihistamines, antidepressants, and more. If you plan to drive at all after drinking, you risk losing a lot. From a DUI arrest to fines, jail time, and a tarnished rap sheet, the bottom line is that it’s just not worth it. Not only are DUIs expensive, there are many other costs that you may not know about. You will most likely have to install an ignition interlock device in your car (which is an annoying enough cost on its own). Then you have to pay monthly fees and installation costs out of your own pocket. Also, your car insurance premiums are bound to go up. This is in addition to the usual hefty fines (which can run into the thousands, sometimes more), and possible jail time.

If you drink, then also stay away from riding a bike or even piloting a boat. BUIs, also known as biking (or boating) under the influence is a real crime and can be treated just as harshly as DUIs.

Have fun marking the end of summer during this period before Labor Day. If you do have that unfortunate lapse in judgment, time is not on your side. Let the skilled DUI lawyers at Alcock & Associates go to work for you today! Call 602-989-5000 for a free consultation.