The Garland Police Department will step up Driving While Intoxicated patrols beginning Friday, Dec. 18 and run them through Sunday, Jan. 3.
The increased DWI patrols are for an Impaired Driver Mobilization project. The project is funded through a TXDOT grant program which targets DWI along with Driving Under the Influence by Minors. The patrols will be active in the night-time hours utilizing both marked and unmarked police cars.
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 DWI 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 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, vehicle insurance increases and other expenses.
In 2014, on Texas highways, there were 1,041 people killed in motor vehicle crashes in which the driver was under the influence of alcohol.
So far in 2015, GPD has recorded a 417 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!