Pennsylvania to Ramp Up DUI Enforcement for Halloween

The last few weeks have been busy ones in Pennsylvania when it comes to the enforcement of driving under the influence (DUI). In early October, the Pennsylvania legislature passed a bill that introduces felony DUI charges in the state. Previously, Pennsylvania was one of only four states that did not require felony charges for those convicted of multiple DUIs.

After the passage of that law, many local jurisdictions across the state also announced they would be ramping up DUI enforcement through Halloween. This will include more sobriety checkpoints and DUI patrols sent out to keep an eye on the state’s roads and highways.

Enforcement around the holiday

Halloween is one of the top party holidays of the year, especially on the weekends immediately before and after when the 31st falls in the middle of the week. Lots of people are out drinking at bars and parties during those times, which means an increased number of people who make poor decisions and get behind the wheel after consuming too much alcohol.

Law enforcement officials encouraged anyone who would be partaking in holiday festivities to plan in advance how they will be getting around, whether that means using ride-sharing services, carpooling with a sober friend, using public transportation or simply avoiding drinking altogether.

These DUI enforcement efforts are a part of the Center for Traffic Safety’s Impaired Driving Program. Expect the greater levels of enforcement to continue through the first weekend of November.

To learn more about your legal options when arrested for DUI, meet with experienced Reading criminal defense attorney David R. Eshelman.