5 Things To Know About DWIs

As graduation celebrations continue tonight and other celebrations throughout the summer, driving home after having a few drinks can be a tempting idea. Here are "5 Things" to keep in mind before getting behind the wheel:

1. There were 46 DWI arrests in Franklin Lakes last year. Yes, it can happen here. According to police, several of these arrests were made after drunk drivers got into accidents.

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. Just don't drink and drive. Call a friend, call your parents or call a taxi.