The Garland Police Department stepped up DWI patrols as of Thursday, Dec. 15 and the increased patrols will run through Sunday, Jan. 1. The patrols will be active during the nighttime hours and will utilize both marked and unmarked police cars.
The increased DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) patrols are for an IDM (Impaired Driver Mobilization) project which is funded through a TXDOT grant program. The program targets DWI along with Driving under the Influence by Minors.
Officers may apply for blood search warrants for those drivers who refuse to consent to provide a specimen of their breath or blood when arrested for Driving While Intoxicated related offenses.
A convicted first-time DWI offender can pay a fine of up to $2,000, lose their driver’s license for up to a year and serve 180 days in jail. Safety officials say that other costs associated with an impaired driving arrest and conviction can add up to more than $17,000 for bail, legal fees, court appearances, court-ordered classes, increased vehicle insurance rates and other expenses.
In 2015 there were 1,446 people killed in motor vehicle crashes on Texas roads where the driver was under the influence of alcohol.
So far in 2016 the Garland Police Department has recorded 292 alcohol related driving arrests of either DWI or DUI Minor.
Designate a driver or the police will provide one for you.
PLEASE DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE!