The Washington State Patrol will be using new airborne technology to monitor the roads for drunk drivers this Memorial Day weekend. As KING 5 reports, the agency has revealed new aerial technology on its plane that can track possible drunk drivers and coordinate with officers on the ground to better police busy roadways.

The new technology will allow the plane pilots to interact with 911 calls and clock speeders on the highway beneath them. New camera technology also gives WSP a live, bird's-eye camera feed on traffic as the plane flies overhead.

"We monitor radios. Work directly with troopers that are on the ground and coordinate any erratic vehicles that have been called into our dispatch center or possible DUI drivers," said WSP pilot Ryan Santhuff. "We will intercept those vehicles overhead and help those ground units intercept them on the ground. Sometimes that will be just a couple minutes. Sometimes we'll follow people all the way to their residence."

Increased DUI Awareness

Like other holiday weekends, Memorial Day weekend has become known for an increase in DUI arrests and law enforcement agencies nationwide are preparing to heighten their vigilance over the next few days. "This is the first three day weekend a lot of people have had since the beginning of the year. It's the kickoff for camping. It's the kickoff for barbecues, graduation, things like that," explained Trooper Heather Axtman. "We want to make sure people are having a good time, but we want to make sure people are safe doing so."

Fortunately, there are ways for all us to stay safe this holiday and avoid getting behind the wheel too soon after enjoying alcohol. "Use Uber, public transportation, things like that, in order to make sure our roadways remain as safe as they can be," Axtman added. "We like people to make it from point A to point B."

If you have been arrested for DUI, you may still have viable defense options. At the Law Office of Mark W. Garka, PLLC, I have helped countless clients navigate their drunk driving charge and secured them favorable results, including reductions and dismissals.

Call my offices to speak with Snohomish County DUI lawyer ready to hear your story today.