Education is key to preventing DWIs
San Antonio, Texas (PRWEB) May 28, 2016
Memorial Day, which commemorates our fallen soldiers, also marks the start of summer fun and vacations for most. However, it can spell tragedy for some. For many people, Memorial Day weekend is a time to celebrate and enjoy heavy drinking. Unfortunately, some of these people will choose to get on our roadways as well.
Thanks to the lowest gas prices in 11 years this summer, more cars are expected to hit the roadway. AAA estimates that there will be 38 million people on the roads this summer. With more vehicles on the road this holiday, impaired driving deaths are expected to hit an all-time high.
The National Safety Council estimates that this will be the deadliest weekend since 2009. According to the NHTSA, there were a total of 183 car crash fatalities, 74 of which were alcohol related in Bexar County in 2014. Nationally, there is 1 DWI crash every 51 minutes. May of 2015 saw over 60 people charged with felony DWIs in San Antonio. A charge of DWI third or more can carry a punishment range from 2-10 years in prison. 2016 DWI arrests are on track to be even higher. San Antonio Attorney, Jesus Lopez, offers these safety tips to keep in mind during the holiday weekend:
- Buckle up and make sure all passengers are buckled up, including children.
- Make sure your vehicle is in optimal driving shape, check for any wear on tires.
- Never use a cell phone while driving, distracted driving is just as bad as drunk driving.
- Stay alert and be mindful of other drivers. Report any impaired drivers you may see on the road.
- If you plan to drink, have a designated driver or plan to use a taxi or ride sharing service.
“Many people underestimate just how intoxicated they are. By the time they feel the effects of alcohol it may be too late to realize they should not be behind the wheel,” says Mr. Lopez. “Education is a key factor in preventing DWIs from occurring. I try to educate all my clients about the potential long terms consequences that a DWI arrest can have.“
Bail bond companies will remain busy this holiday weekend as arrests surge. “We will be devoting extra people to the phones this weekend to accommodate the heavy demand,” said Mr. Lopez, who also posts bail bonds in Bexar County.
The Law Offices of Jesus R. Lopez is a San Antonio law firm providing criminal defense as well as bail bonds throughout Bexar County. For more information visit http://www.sanantoniobonds.com or call 210-224-5245.