Freeway Cleanup

Although many DUI / DWI defendants face consequences such as fines, driver's license suspensions, and jail sentences, sometimes jail can be avoided through alternative sentencing. One option generally available is freeway cleanup.

DUI offenders who participate in freeway cleanup join a CalTrans work crew as a term of probation. In what is known as good time/work time custody credits, hours worked with CalTrans are credited toward the amount of time the defendant normally would have spent in jail.

CalTrans work typically involves picking up trash, clearing brush, or removing graffiti from walls along freeways. The day usually begins at 6 a.m. in the parking lot of one of many CalTrans locations, where workers board vans to travel to their work sites. The work day lasts eight hours. CalTrans work is available every day, although weekend slots are in high demand, so its important to arrive at the pickup site early to ensure a place in line.

Freeway cleanup is generally offered as a condition of probation. The DUI offender is given a deadline to complete the required number of hours. If the hours are not completed on time, the offender will have violated the terms of probation.

Alternative sentencing options such as freeway cleanup can be an attractive option instead of jail for a DUI / DWI offender. An attorney who focuses on drunk-driving defense will review each case and advise whether alternative sentencing may be an option.