Roadblocks set for today, next weekend
Targeting drunk drivers under its crackdown on drinking and driving this summer, the highway patrol will be continuing a series of sobriety checkpoints around Warren County.
As part of the 100 Days of Summer and Stay Alive in ’05 campaign, the roadblocks will be held today, as well as this upcoming Friday and Saturday, at unannounced points on state highways in Warren County. The roadblocks may also be held on Yager Road.
“Recognizing the danger presented to the public by persons driving under the influence of intoxicants who pose a substantial threat to the welfare of the citizenry of Tennessee, troopers will concentrate their efforts on vehicles being operated by drivers who would violate the DUI laws of Tennessee,” said Lt. Randy F. Hoover in announcing the roadblocks.
First-offense DUI in Tennessee carries a minimum 48 hours in jail, a $350 fine, and a one-year license revocation. Penalties rise for each subsequent DUI including 45 days in jail, a $600 fine and two-year suspension for second offense, and 120 days in jail, an $1,100 fine and three-year suspension for third offense.
Costly mistake
The state estimates first-offense DUI costs the offender an average of $9,115 once everything like attorneys fees, bail, towing, court costs, alcohol classes and special insurance are calculated.