Family reunions, parties, and countless celebrations can make the holiday season memorable. However, when you are coming to and from these festive occasions and you have been drinking, the chance of getting a driving under the influence (DUI) charge is high. The holiday season provides an opportunity for people to indulge, and law enforcement officials are ready to punish impaired drivers in order to keep the roads safe. Between Christmas and New Year’s Day alone, the average number of deaths from drunk driving accidents rises 34 percent in the U.S., according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). DUI arrests tend to surge during the holiday season because more people are celebrating and drinking, and more police tend to be out on patrol as well. They may also organize and set up DUI checkpoints to find drunk drivers. With many law enforcement officers increasing their efforts to stop drunk drivers during the holiday season, it is important to plan ahead and take appropriate safety measures to ensure you do not get a DUI charge.
Do Not Drink
The best way to avoid a DUI arrest is to avoid drinking. If you know that you have to drive yourself home from a party, then it is best to not drink alcohol at all. However, if you decide to drink at a restaurant or family party, arrange for someone else to drive you home. This can be designated driver, a family member, public transportation, or a rideshare service.
Host the Party
If you plan on drinking, you can host the holiday party so that you do not have to worry about driving home. The responsibility of being a host also involves making sure your guests get home safely. You can offer them a spare room to spend the night, or you can call them a taxi or rideshare service.
What Is the One Drink an Hour Rule?
Many people have heard of the “one drink an hour rule.” Under this rule, if you consume one drink per hour, your blood alcohol content (BAC) level will not typically exceed 0.08 percent. However, it is important to note that everyone is different, and this rule may not be effective. Weight, height, medications you are taking, and other factors can influence how your body breaks down alcohol. It is better to avoid drinking at all if you plan to go to a party and must drive home. This way, you will avoid a DUI charge and an accident.
South Jersey DUI Lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John Can Defend Your Rights if You Have Been Charged With a DUI After a Holiday Event
If you have been charged with a DUI this holiday season, our skilled South Jersey DUI lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John can offer legal assistance. Call us at 856-296-3481 or complete our online form for an initial consultation today. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Salem County.
Christopher St. John
Tess Berkowitz