Over the Thanksgiving extended weekend, you may have noticed more state troopers along Interstate 5. This increased presence is not by chance. In fact, the reason for the increased presence is that from Wednesday through Monday, the State Patrol is conducting the "I-5 Challenge," reports Northwest News.

The I-5 Challenge is a challenge for drivers to make it through the Thanksgiving holidays with no fatalities along the busy interstate. The Washington State Patrol is joining with local enforcement agencies to help ensure that drunk drivers are spotted and stopped. As part of the Challenge, law enforcement agencies from Washington, Oregon, and California are participating to make sure their respective stretches of Interstate 5 remain safe.

Last year, 369 drivers were arrested for drunk driving during Thanksgiving weekend in Washington State. For the past five years during the time from Thanksgiving to New Year's, about 50 people died each year on average as a result of a DUI.

Holiday DUIs are very common because many drivers may lower their inhibitions as they celebrate with family members and friends. However, DUI arrests are also common because the State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies are actively looking for the signs of drunk driving. Sometimes in their overzealousness to nab a drunk driver, law enforcement personnel may make a wrongful arrest.

If you believe that you have been mistakenly charged with a DUI, you should know that you are innocent until proven guilty. Being charged with drunk driving does not mean that you have committed a crime. A Seattle DUI attorney can explain to you your options and defenses.

To get started on your defense, contact an experienced attorney at Wolff Criminal Defense. You can schedule a consultation to review the specifics of your case by calling 425-284-2000.