The holiday season – from Thanksgiving through New Year’s – sees some of the highest rates of alcohol-involved auto accidents, many of which result in preventable injuries and traffic deaths. Because the risk for accidents increases when more intoxicated motorists are on the road during the holidays, law enforcement officials tend to increase their efforts on strictly enforcing DUI laws and making roadways safer places for everyone.

How Law Enforcement is Cracking Down on Drunk and Drugged Driving this Holiday Season?

Over the past several weeks and through this coming New Year’s holiday, law enforcement officers throughout Las Vegas, Nevada, and the entire country will be cracking down on drugged and drunk drivers. Their efforts may consist of:

• DUI Checkpoints – DUI checkpoints are one of authorities’ most preferred methods of DUI enforcement. These checkpoints are conducted by officers who stop motorists in order to examine them for signs of impairment. Officers may also check motorists to see if they are properly licensed to drive.
• Saturation Patrols – Saturation patrols are another common tactic used by officers during periods of increased DUI enforcement. They involve increasing the number of officers on the road, especially in locations and at times known for higher rates of alcohol-involved incidents.
• Increased Traffic Stops – Generally, law enforcement will be on high alert for drivers who exhibit signs of impaired driving, including unsafe speeds and lane changes, swerving, and other dangerous behaviors. Officers may also act on tips from the public to pull drivers over under suspicion of drunk driving.

Is Making a U-turn at a DUI Checkpoint Against the Law?

No, it isn’t illegal to turn around at a DUI checkpoint. However, it’s important to be aware that law enforcement officials may take notice and pull you over if they suspect you are attempting to evade the checkpoint. To avoid this situation, motorists should plan their routes ahead of time in order to avoid DUI checkpoints.

If officers do choose to stop and question a driver who has attempted to turn around at a DUI checkpoint, the driver may politely inform officers that they have changed their mind about going through the checkpoint. Officers may still choose to investigate further, so it’s important for drivers to remain cooperative and respect the officer’s orders.

What Are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas law enforcement does not take driving under the influence lightly, and those who are caught can face serious penalties. Depending on the severity of the incident, individuals may be sentenced to jail time, hefty fines, license suspension or revocation, ignition interlock device installation, community service, drug/alcohol education classes, and/or probation. Additionally, those with multiple DUI convictions or high BAC levels may face steeper penalties.

Shook & Stone: Your Legal Attorneys in LA

New Year’s holiday is one of the most dangerous times of year on American roadways simply because too many people make the negligent decision to drive after they’ve been driving. At Shook & Stone, our Las Vegas car accident lawyers hope that you stay safe and help keep others safe by finding a sober ride.

Should anyone be injured in a preventable drunk or drugged driving accident, our car accident legal team is here to help! Contact us today for a free evaluation by calling us at (702) 570-0000.