Two much celebration could land you a night behind bars

TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - Ringing in a new year is a time to celebrate. But too much celebration can lead to a night behind bars.

Tippecanoe County Deputy Sheriff Beth Koehler said deputies will be out Monday night and early Tuesday morning looking for drunk drivers.

"Are they stopping at a green light? Are they swerving in and out of lanes? Are they failing to use turn signals?" Koehler said.

Koehler said once a driver is pulled over, deputies will be on the look out for the odor of alcohol, bloodshot eyes, and other signs of intoxication. She said they will then be given a breathalyzer test and depending on the results, could be taken in to be booked at the jail.

"Depending on what your test result was on the instrument we used, that determines how long you're going to have to stay in jail. There's not a bond here in Tippecanoe County for an OWI, however, you have to stay an 'x' amount of hours based on your blood alcohol content level," Koehler explained.

Koehler said sober drivers can also help spot drunk drivers. She said if it's obvious a driver has had a few too many, report it.

"We can dispatch an officer out to the scene to check it out. I'd also recommend that they attempt to get a description of the vehicle and license plate number," Koehler said.

Koehler said drivers also need to be wary of the weather. She said with Monday's snow and cold temperatures, the roads will be slick. She said allow yourself plenty of time to get where you're going.

Koehler said if you plan on being a designated driver but end up drinking too much, call a cab. If you're at a friend's house, stay the night. She said if there's any doubt, it's better to be safe than sorry.