Drunk Driving Can Bring A Sobering Reality Check

By Stan Miller, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies are hoping for the best and preparing for the worst this weekend and are spreading the word that if you drink and drive, you're going to get caught and you're going to jail.

Last year at least three people were killed and 37 others were injured in alcohol related crashes in the state.

Authorities said they are continuing their much-publicized campaign, "Over The Limit, Under Arrest," and they are asking motorists to report anyone they see driving erratically.

Police said drivers don't have to be "falling down drunk" to be over the legal limit. Sgt. Terry Tilley with the Midwest City Police Department said getting behind the wheel of a 6,000 pound vehicle after drinking is just like playing "Russian Roulette," not only with your life but with the lives of others.

Tilley stages accident scenes at local high schools to show teens that drunk driving is not a "victimless crime" in hopes of preventing drunk driving at an early age.

Attorney Irven Block, who has represented many Oklahomans in D.U.I. cases, said the financial loss if you're caught can also be sobering. He said an arrest and what follows can cost you upwards of $6,000 in legal fees and court costs, not to mention the frustration and cost of getting your license back.

Police are urging partiers to take the keys of anyone who's been drinking and appears to be getting ready to drive.

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