Arlington Police Step Up DUI Enforcement During Memorial Day Weekend

As residents make Memorial Day weekend plans, safe transportation to and from gatherings and celebrations is an essential consideration, and Arlington County Police will be keeping a sharp eye out for intoxicated drivers.

Throughout the weekend, Arlington County will have more officers on the street watching for drivers under the influence, focusing especially on evening hours beginning Friday.

DUI enforcement usually ramps up during holidays, said Detective Crystal Nosal, the public information officer for the police department, though there are no check-points planned for this weekend, she said.

DUI enforcement is intended to be preventative, Nosal said. According to the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) website, more than 1,400 drunk driving-related fatalities have occurred in Virginia in the past five years.

Nosal urged drivers to "make smart decisions."

According to Virginia law, drivers whose blood alcohol level is .08 or higher can be arrested. Those who plan to celebrate with a few drinks should designate a sober driver or arrange alternative transportation.

Red Top Cab and Arlington Blue Top Cabs serve the Arlington area and can be reached by phone or hailed in high-traffic areas. Both companies accept payment by credit card.

Those hoping to avoid the trip back to pick up their vehicle the next day can call Drivers Incorporated, a service that sends a driver to take party-goers back home in their own car. Rates start at $20, with an additional $3 per mile.