As comfortable temperatures return to Western Washington and July 4th festivities approach, it is important to remember that law enforcement departments across the state routinely increase DUI patrols while we celebrate our country’s independence. Specifically, Washington State Patrol (WSP) troopers often employ the following methods of enforcement during this time of year:
- patrols during specified times and in areas known for DUI activity;
- participation in multi-agency emphasis patrols;
- use of drug recognition experts; and
- use of unmarked patrol vehicles and aircraft.
More than 43.6 million Americans are expected to hit the roads between July 1st and July 5th for Independence Day. If these predictions are accurate, this would be the second-largest travel volume on record, even with commuting traffic still at pre-pandemic rates. Specific to Washington State, John R. Batiste, current chief of WSP said just this past week, “Stunning climate and summertime holidays usually carry higher volumes. We count on this year to see important pent-up demand to get out and get [back] to our pre-pandemic life.” Thus, regardless of whether such actually occurs, Washington State law enforcement is certainly expecting to see more impaired drivers on the road this weekend… However, you choose to celebrate our nation’s independence, please do so responsibly. Attorneys at Veitch Ault & Associates can be reached 24/7 at 425-452-1600.
