MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – If you plan to ring in 2024 with alcohol, be advised that the Morgantown Police Department will be watching. Chief of Police Eric Powell said they will have a full complement of officers on all shifts patrolling the streets of the city.
“Because there is a lot of that activity going on, we’re going to be focusing and paying closer attention to the traffic situation,” Powell said.
Information from the U.S. Department of Transportation reports that as many as 300 Americans are fatally injured in motor vehicle accidents between Christmas and New Year’s Day, and more than 25 percent of the crashes involved alcohol.
“You’re placing yourself and others at risk of serious bodily harm or even death,” Powell said. “So, we take DUI offenses very seriously, and we are obviously going to enforce the law,” Powell said.
Powell wants people to enjoy the holiday, but with a plan, especially if alcohol is part of your celebration. The options range from a taxi, ride-sharing service, a friend, or even walking in order to be safe and stay out of legal trouble.
“You should always have a plan. Obviously, if you’re going to be going out and celebrating the New Year at a location other than your home, you’re going to want to plan on how you’re going to get back if you plan on consuming alcohol,” Powell said.
A DUI offense can cost up to $10,000 in legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and a potential license suspension. The process also takes time away from work, and the penalty can result in increased future inconvenience.
“I think the repercussions of getting arrested for DUI speak volumes about how serious the legal system and judicial system take those kinds of offenses, not to mention the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.”