5 Things About DWIs

Fourth of July weekend barbecues  typically involve imbibing, so you can be sure the local police departments will be stepping up DWI patrols this weekend. Here are "5 Things" to keep in mind before getting behind the wheel:

1. Statistics from the past 25 years show nearly half of all fatal accidents that occur during the Fourth of July weekend were alcohol related, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

2. Local police increase their enforcement during this time of the year. The state provides "Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund" money for police overtime, checkpoints and court proceedings, as well as other costs associated with catching drunk drivers.

3. A first-time DWI offense can get your license suspended for up to one year. There is also a fine of up to $400, a $3,000 insurance surcharge, $100 enforcement surcharge, mandatory classes and a possible sentence of 30 days in jail. Second- and third-time drunk drivers face even steeper punishment, with a 10-year suspension, $1,000 fine and 90 days in jail.

4. There were 11,773 deaths that resulted from drunk driving in 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Of those deaths, 250 were children under 14.

5. In 2009, 410 people were killed in accidents over the Fourth of July weekend. Forty percent of those involved a driver with a blood alcohol level in excess of .08.

Please be responsible: Don't drink and drive. Here's a list of local taxi companies.