New Jersey Officials Announce Increased DWI Enforcement During Holidays

A variety of law enforcement bodies across the state of New Jersey have announced an upsurge in efforts to identify and charge those driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs during the holiday season.

Through increased sobriety checkpoints and  roving patrols in a multitude of towns, authorities hope to curtail some of the damages associated with DWI in New Jersey. According to recent data, over 10,000 people die each year in traffic accidents involving alcohol. Further, 27 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities in New Jersey last year were alcohol-related. The statewide campaign known as “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” is intended to combat some of these issues through enhanced enforcement activities and public education.

Ultimately, this means that residents should be aware of increasing checkpoints and patrols conducted by state and local law enforcement through through Friday, January 1st. The towns that are participating in the program have received additional funds for this purpose. Those participating in Union County include police departments in: Berkeley Heights, Cranford, Fanwood, Linden, Mountainside, Rahway, Roselle Park, Roselle, and Union.

If you are driving on New Year’s, avoid alcohol, and be aware that others may be driving under the influence. If you are arrested or charged with DWI, you will be required to appear in the Municipal Court associated with the municipality in which the alleged offense occurred. Although these are considered traffic violations in New Jersey, they can result in severe penalties, including a period of license suspension, heavy fines, and even a jail sentence.

Fortunately, there are many ways to challenge a DWI charge in New Jersey, some of which involve:

I regularly represent clients charged with DWI and DUI in Municipal Courts throughout Union County, New Jersey and am happy to answer your questions. Simply contact my offices at (908) 481-4625 for a consultation.

To learn more about the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over activities this holiday season, access the following article: Holiday DWI Crackdown In N.J. – Is Your Town On List?