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Law enforcement on the lookout for DUI drivers

Posted at 4:40 AM, Feb 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-02-08 04:40:21-05

Law enforcement was patrolling Sunday night on the lookout for drivers under the influence.

Deputies were patrolling near bars, restaurants and where there were parties while the Super Bowl was occurring.

"Some people decide to get behind the wheel after drinking a little too much," said Deputy David Yun with the Martin County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies are determined to keep drunk drivers off the roads.

"It just takes that one time that you make a mistake, or you misjudge a distance, and you hit a pedestrian or a stopped car," explained Yun.

In one case, Yun stopped a van speeding at 54 mph in a 35 mph zone on U.S. 1 and Ocean Boulevard.

However, he determined the driver was not drunk.

"I don't have any indicators of impairments," said Yun. "So, I'm just going to run her driver's license and send her on her way."

But on some nights, drivers aren't so lucky.

"I'm looking at the eyes, the way they speak, if they're slurring or mumbling their speech," explained Yun. "If they know where they are, know where they're coming from."

On Sunday night, there were more cars on the road, which could mean more speeders.

In front of the Sports Authority, Yun stopped another driver. He said the driver was going 69 mph in a 45 mph zone.

Yun said on average he makes one DUI arrest a night.

Remember, if you've been drinking and get behind the wheel, ask yourself if it's worth it. If you're charged with DUI, you could face up to a year in the county jail and have to fork over an estimated $10,000 to $20,000 in court and insurance fees.