The holidays are a time when DWI arrests increase. This month, municipalities across the state are teaming up to crack down on drunk driving. Increased patrols and checkpoints are among the methods to be used to catch New Jersey drivers who are driving while intoxicated.

Bergen County was among the most aggressive when DWI patrols were increased last summer. Elmwood Park in Bergen County had more than 40 arrests during the program, more than twice that of any other town. Overall, the state dramatically increased its DWI arrest totals to 1,437 thanks to the program.

Drivers in Bergen County need to be aware of the increased patrols as they attend holiday parties and festivities this season. Officials will be able to increase their patrols due to $5,000 federal grants doled out to some New Jersey towns. This funding will pay for the time spent by officers on New Jersey's roads.

Officers will be looking for drivers who appear intoxicated. Swerving, changing lanes too fast and exceptionally fast or slow driving could be among the indicators of a driver who has been drinking. If the officer suspects that a driver is under the influence, they may seek to conduct a sobriety test. And they may also request that the driver submit to a breathalyzer test.

Bergen County drivers who have been stopped for suspected drunk driving have legal rights that must be respected. Nevertheless, the mere accusation of drunk driving often carries with it a social stigma as well as the potential for jail, financial penalties and probation. Any individual confronted with DWI allegations must focus on the charges at hand and work to prepare a meaningful defense aimed at acquittal or other favorable conclusion to any criminal proceedings.

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer, "Drunk driver crackdown starts Monday," Peter Mucha, Dec. 3, 2011