State Police announce annual Fourth of July Holiday DWI Crackdown

Snap – crackle – pop – those are sounds you will likely hear over the weekend as America celebrates its independence.

However, police say some people will be hearing the snap of handcuffs locking around their wrists after driving drunk.

Aimed to run through early Tuesday, July 5, the New York State Police is announcing their annual Fourth of July impaired and drunk driving crackdown.

“If you drive drunk or drugged, you not only put your life and the lives of others at risk, you could face arrest, jail time, and substantial fines and attorney fees,” the State Police said in their latest news release.

“Arrested drunk and drugged drivers face the loss of their driver’s license, higher insurance rates, and dozens of unanticipated expenses from attorney fees, fines and court costs, car towing and repairs, and lost time at work.”

Officials say the average cost of a DWI can go as high as $10,000.

During this enforcement period, drivers can expect to encounter sobriety checkpoints and DWI patrols.

Troopers will also be looking for motorists who are using their phones and other electronic devices while behind the wheel.

Drivers should also remember to “move over” for stopped emergency and hazard vehicles when they travel New York roadways.

During last year’s Fourth of July enforcement period, Troopers issued 10,238 total tickets, arrested 195 people for DWI and investigated 648 crashes, including two fatalities. 

Image courtesy via the New York State Police.