KPDcitzensTexas law enforcement is ramping up patrols to combat drunk driving this holiday season. Officers statewide will work thousands of extra hours between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day to help keep people safe on the roadways. Texas is participating in the national enforcement crackdown sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In cooperation with this initiative, the Kyle Police Department will be closely monitoring the roadways this holiday season looking for impaired drivers. Those found to be intoxicated or otherwise impaired will be subject to arrest and impoundment of their vehicle. In addition to jail time, drivers who are arrested for driving while intoxicated can face fines, fees, and associated costs of up to $17,000. The legal limit in Texas for intoxication is .08 BAC (blood or breath alcohol concentration). However, when a law enforcement officer has probable cause based on the driver’s behavior, drivers can be arrested with a BAC below .08.

“Please do not operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or any other substance that could impair your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle or any other means of transportation,” said Police Chief Jeff Barnett. “Plan ahead and stay safe this holiday season by designating a sober driver when going out.”

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) encourages Texans to give the gift of a sober ride this holiday season. It’s a gift that could save a life while also protecting drivers from the formidable legal and financial troubles that can result from drinking and driving. SoberRides.org is one way to find a safe ride home.

Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIalcohol) can have tragic consequences. According to TxDOT, there were over 2,300 DUIalcohol traffic crashes in Texas last holiday season (Dec. 1, 2013 – Jan. 1, 2014), resulting in 763 serious injuries and 92 fatalities. Compared to the previous year, there was a 6.6 percent decrease in DUIalcohol crashes and an 8.9 percent decrease in DUIalcohol traffic fatalities in Texas. These decreases are encouraging, but there is still a lot of work to be done.

“We hope that increased visibility by law enforcement this holiday season can save lives on the road,” added Chief Barnett. “We would be very happy to not arrest anyone this holiday season, please help us by being responsible and looking for each other.”