As the holiday season approaches, many locals ask a common question: “Do Austin police increase arrests in December?” The short answer is yes, law enforcement in Austin tends to step up traffic enforcement, especially for drunk driving (DWI) and other traffic-related offenses during December and into the New Year. This trend reflects both public safety goals and real patterns of impaired driving over the holidays.
Holiday Traffic Enforcement in Austin
Last year, the Austin Police Department (APD) publicly announced that it increases traffic and DWI enforcement during the holiday period, typically starting in mid-December and running through January 1st. These efforts are meant to keep the roads safer as celebrations and travel increase. Austin Texas
Law enforcement agencies often increase patrols, set up sobriety checkpoints, and monitor busy roads more closely around Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and weekend nights during the holidays when impaired driving incidents tend to rise. While specific arrest numbers for December in Austin aren’t always published publicly, national and statewide data consistently show higher arrest rates during the holidays, and the local police department’s announcement mirrors that trend.
Why Arrests and Enforcement Increase in December
Several reasons explain why police activity and DWI arrests go up during December:
1. Increased Alcohol Consumption
Holiday parties and gatherings naturally involve more alcohol consumption. When people underestimate their level of impairment and choose to drive, law enforcement sees an uptick in impaired driving traffic stops and arrests.
2. Higher Traffic Volume
More people are on the road visiting family, going to work parties, and attending holiday events. With more vehicles on the streets, there are more opportunities for traffic violations, collisions, and subsequent police engagement.
3. Enforcement Campaigns
Police use the holiday season to remind drivers and enforce traffic safety laws. APD and other local agencies may promote holiday “safety campaigns,” increased patrol hours, and highly visible police presence to deter dangerous driving.
What Increased Traffic Enforcement Means for Drivers
When law enforcement increases traffic arrests and patrols in December, it affects drivers in several important ways:
Greater Likelihood of Traffic Stops
Officers are looking for signs of impairment, speeding, distracted driving, and other violations, which means there’s a greater chance of being pulled over if you’re not driving safely.
Impaired Driving Enforcement
Austin and Travis County participate in ongoing DWI enforcement efforts that may include No Refusal initiatives during certain periods. These programs are intended to discourage impaired driving by making it easier for officers to obtain blood search warrants if a driver refuses breath or chemical tests.
⚠️ Important: Even if you’re asked to perform field sobriety tests, breath tests, or blood tests, you are not required to voluntarily submit to these without legal advice. You should still protect your rights and speak to an attorney before agreeing to any test or signing anything.
Higher Risk of Arrest
With more officers on patrol looking for violations, the risk of being arrested for DUI, reckless driving, or other traffic-related crimes increases, especially late at night, on weekends, or near popular event areas.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Helps After a Holiday Arrest
If you are arrested during December, or any time for a traffic violation or DWI, contacting a criminal defense attorney early can make a significant difference in your case. An experienced lawyer can:
- Review the traffic stop and arrest procedures
- Advise you on how to handle law enforcement interactions
- Preserve evidence and challenge unlawful stops
- Help mitigate fines, license suspension, or jail time
- Provide guidance through both criminal defense and related legal consequences
At Batrice Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of drivers who were arrested over the holiday season. Our criminal defense team helps clients navigate the stress and legal consequences that can come with increased holiday policing. Our team understands local practices and works aggressively to protect your rights in DWI and other traffic-related cases.
Drive Safely and Plan Ahead
While enforcement increases in December, the best strategy is prevention. If you plan to drink, arrange a safe ride home, designate a sober driver, or use ride-sharing services. Avoid risky behavior such as speeding or distracted driving, and always obey traffic laws. These steps not only improve safety on the roads, but also reduce the risk of an arrest that can impact your future.
If you or a loved one is facing a DWI or traffic-related arrest this holiday season, don’t wait, reach out to Batrice Law Firm for guidance and a strong defense. Contact us at 512-600-1000.
