Legal Blog

 

Avoid a DUI this Thanksgiving

Nov 27 2013, by Michael Fienman in DUI

Pennsylvania State Police and local law enforcement officers will be keeping a sharp eye out this Thanksgiving weekend for anyone driving under the influence or without a seatbelt.

The state police are teaming up with local police and sheriff’s departments, as well as PennDOT, for “Operation Safe Holiday.” The enforcement operation includes sobriety checkpoints and extra patrols to watch for DUI and other violations.

PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said in a press release that Thanksgiving is one of the most dangerous weekends for drivers.

In 2012, PennDOT reports that there were a total of 4,328 crashes and 53 deaths statewide over Thanksgiving weekend. That’s well above the 1,640 crashes and 19 deaths reported over Christmas and New Year.

Of those 53 fatalities during Thanksgiving weekend last year, 31 were from crashes involving an impaired driver.

To stay safe and avoid a DUI or other traffic charge this holiday weekend:

  • Have a designated driver if you’re going to drink any alcohol
  • Buckle up when on the road
  • Check http://www.511pa.com/ for weather conditions before driving

If you do get pulled over, call Philadelphia DUI Attorney Michael Fienman at (215) 839-9529 to talk about your options.