Going out to celebrate?  Think before you drink.  Austin and Bastrop have instituted a "No Refusal" weekend.  To Austinites, "No Refusal" weekend for New Years should not be a surprise.  What you may not know is other cities are starting to adopt the program, including Bastrop.

The Bastrop Police Department will kick off their first DWI No-Refusal enforcement effort for the New Year weekend, beginning on New Years Eve night.

You can expect additional officers to be on the roadway looking for intoxicated drivers.

Under Texas law, any individual who is arrested for suspected drunk driving who refuses to submit to a breath test will be required to provide a blood specimen for analysis.

On average, over 10,000 drunk-driving fatalities are reported nationwide each year. Texas has more alcohol-related crash fatalities than any other state. California is in second place with 300 less alcohol-related fatalities a year.

The Austin Police Department initiative is already underway.  Tonight on IH35, several police units lined the street looking for suspected drunk drivers.  So think before you drink and don't forget there are many options that do not include death, a trip to jail, attorney fees, surcharges and a host of other issues. 

Take advantage of the SOBER Ride program.  Happy New Year and be safe!