DUI enforcement is now a priority for authorities and prosecutors throughout the country. In their efforts to reduce rates of preventable accidents, injuries, and fatalities – and to increase arrests and convictions – law enforcement agencies frequently conduct sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols. Checkpoints are currently against Washington law – although lawmakers are proposing plans to add DUI checkpoints to the state's enforcement arsenal. This leaves DUI patrols as the primary enforcement method for Washington officers.
With the holiday season fast approaching, Washington law enforcement agencies are reminded of the historically high rates of DUI accidents that occur on public roadways. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, an average of 49 people died each year in the past five years between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Statistics also reveal that impaired driving is the leading cause of traffic fatalities in the state.
Knowing this, King County police and the King County Sheriff's Office are planning to increase DUI patrols between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. More officers will be on the roads and more will be focused on arresting suspected impaired drivers this holiday season. The Washington Safety Commission is also encouraging local residents to report suspected drunk drivers. DUI patrols are set to begin on Thanksgiving eve.
Proven Defense for Holiday DUIs in King County
Putting more boots on the pavement and increasing patrolling officers' focus on DUIs often results in a significant increase in arrests during patrol periods. Naturally, this leads to questions of whether officers had reasonable suspicion, complied with arresting protocol, or did not act in overzealousness when arresting suspected drunk drivers. These law enforcement mistakes, in addition to other defense strategies our firm can develop, are common reasons for DUI case dismissals.
For those who are arrested and charged with a King County DUI this holiday season, proven representation can be found at DUIHeroes. Lynnwood DUI lawyer Jonathan Dichter has years of experience handling the full range of DUI offenses and represents clients throughout Snohomish County, King County, and the surrounding communities of Washington.
To learn more about your case and how our firm can help defend against your DUI charges, call (425) 296-9358 for a free consultation.