Kyle PD begins Labor Day DWI patrols

KYLE, Texas (KXAN) - Drink. Drive. Go To Jail.

That’s the message Kyle Police Department and other officers around the state would like to send out to all motorists this Labor Day.

Beginning Sunday, and continuing through Sept. 5, the Kyle Police Department will step up enforcement and awareness activities to prevent drinking and driving on the city’s roadways.

“The Kyle Police Department is committed to enhancing roadway safety in our community,” said Kyle Police Chief Jeff Barnet. “The Labor Day holiday weekend is often a dangerous time as families try to end their summer with one last trip. We would like to do our part to make that trip a safe and happy one, as opposed to a tragic one. As part of the statewide traffic initiative, the Kyle Police Department will be using every available resource to enforce the state and local traffic laws to promote roadway safety and compliance.”

Convicted first-time DWI offenders can pay a fine of up to $2,000, lose their driver’s licenses for as long as one year and serve as much as 180 days in jail. Safety officers say other costs associated with an impaired driving arrest and conviction can add up to as much as $17,000 or more for bail, legal fees, court appearances, court-ordered classes, vehicle insurance increases and other expenses.

KPD urges impaired individuals to consider calling a cab, asking a friend or family member, or use a designated driver to prevent potential injury or worse, fatality on the roadways.

In 2010, the state of Texas experienced 25,032 alcohol-related crashes, which included 1,057 deaths and 16,877 injuries.

“We would be very happy to not issue a single ticket or arrest a single person,” said Barnett. “However, if a driver is going to be reckless and put the public at risk, we are going to do everything possible to stop that activity.”