Texas Border Business
As the 4th of July holiday approaches, the Edinburg Police Department, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, the McAllen Police Department, and the Pharr Police Department would like to remind the public about the importance of driving sober. In an effort to keep our communities safe, each agency pledges to increase patrols to keep drunk drivers off our roadways.
Drunk driving is far more prevalent during the holidays and it is essential to work together to deter driving under the influence. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports from 2016 to 2020, 1,390 drivers were killed in traffic crashes over the Independence Day holiday period-41% of those drivers were intoxicated. It is why, the Edinburg Police Department and our neighboring counterparts, will increase patrols and have officers on alert for impaired drivers.
We hope that families have an enjoyable, memorable, but safe Fourth of July weekend. If you plan to drink, plan for a designated driver, call a cab, or ride-share service.
Edinburg and neighboring departments remain ‘no refusal’ cities. If an officer has probable cause to believe that an individual may be driving under the influence and refuses a breathalyzer test, authorities can obtain a warrant for a blood draw.
First-time offenders convicted of driving while intoxicated can face up to a $2,000 fine, up to 180 days in jail with a minimum of three mandatory days behind bars, as well as the loss of their driver’s license for up to a year.
A second offense can result in a fine of up to $4,000, one month to a year in prison upon conviction, and loss of their driver’s license for up to two years. Upon his/her third conviction, an individual may face a fine of up to $10,000, a sentence of two to 10 years in prison, and the loss of their driver’s license for up to two years.
The 4th of July is a holiday that is rich in Freedom celebrated with Family, Friends, and Food. Your law enforcement agencies wish you a safe and Happy 4th of July.
If you suspect someone is driving drunk, please contact your local law enforcement agency or dial 911.
