Michigan Police Step Up Enforcement, Impared & Drunk Driving Arrests for Fourth of July

[Kronzek Cronkright]

Ask anyone that lives in Michigan, and they will tell you that the summer months are the best. Traditionally filled with boating, barbecues, family, and friends, summertime brings everyone outside and on the roads. However, frequent celebrations and an increased number of people driving has prompted law enforcement officials to step up patrols. DWI defense lawyers statewide warn motorists: as the Fourth of July approaches, more police will be on the look out for impaired and drunk drivers.

Police departments from 35 counties across the state have begun stepping up enforcement in preparation of the summer holiday, increasing patrols from July 1st to July 10th. Certainly, this is nothing new. Law enforcement officials nationwide keep an extra eye out for intoxicated motorists, particularly around celebratory holidays. This year, however, police will not only focus on drunk driving arrests, but also at keeping motorists impaired by drugs off the road as well. “While the focus of this effort is drivers under the influence of alcohol, officers will be arresting any impaired driver and removing not only drunk drivers from the roadway, but also those under the influence of drugs,” explained Michael Prince, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.

When one looks at the statistics, it’s not surprising that state police officers would also be keeping watch for drugged driving as well. While drunk driving arrests and accidents in Michigan have decreased, there has been a significant rise in drugged driving arrests. From 2009 to 2010 alone, the number of drug-involved arrests and crashes has increased by 29 percent!

No matter what, it is always the best idea to designate a sober driver after consuming any type of intoxicating substance. Not only can someone get seriously injured, but the penalties for drunk driving in Michigan are severe and life-changing. If arrested for driving while intoxicated, it is in your best interest to immediately contact an experienced DWI defense lawyer for assistance. Doing so as soon as possible will ensure the best legal advice and legal representation for your case, protecting your personal liberties and freedoms from being taken away.