Accident investigation in Fort Lee leads to arrest of Washington resident for DWI

A 28 year old male from Yakima, Washington was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated (also known as driving under the influence) on the George Washington Bridge early this morning. It is alleged that prior to being pulled over, the defendant had struck not only a light pole and a street sign but also a parking meter and a flood light as well. The destruction appears to have taken place in the Borough of Fort Lee, however, the defendant was not pulled over until he actually made entry onto the George Washington Bridge. Port Authority Police Officer, Edwin Berdecia, stated that the defendant’s vehicle had some extensive front end damage as a result of his actions.

If this is the defendant’s first DUI charge, he is facing up to a twelve month loss of his driving privileges in the state of New Jersey if convicted. It is not clear from the initial reports whether the defendant has a Washington or a New Jersey drivers license, but, New Jersey only has the authority to suspended the defendant’s drivers privileges within the state of New Jersey. With that being said, the State of New Jersey will report the incident to the Division of Motor Vehicles in the defendant’s home state and they may suspended his privileges as well. If this is the defendant’s second dui offense then he is facing up to a two year loss of his driving privileges. Furthermore, if this is determined to be the defendant’s third or subsequent dwi offense, he would be facing not only a ten (10) year loss of his driving privileges but also 180 days in the Bergen County Jail. 

As you can see, dui / dwi is a very serious offense in New Jersey. A loss of one’s driving privileges can be devastating. If you or someone you know has been charged with a driving under the influence offense in Bergen County, we can help. Please feel free to contact any one of the Law Offices of Marshall, Bonus, Proetta & Oliver’s Bergen County offices for a free initial consultation with any one of our Bergen County DWI defense attorneys.