Did you know that driving under the influence (DUI) arrests are at their highest between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve? When you factor in the festive gatherings and celebrations
that marks the season, it really is no wonder. According to the U.S. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the U.S. sees the average number of fatalities involving alcohol-impaired drivers rise by 34 percent during the time between the two holidays. While drinking and driving should be avoided at any time of the year, it is especially important to be conscientious of alcohol consumption and transportation needs and PLAN AHEAD ahead for the holiday season.
With over 25 years of experience, Jeff GOULD Law is the Attorney in YOUR Corner, so we’re arming you with some tips on how to avoid a DUI and other consequences of drinking and driving over during your New Year’s Eve celebrations. Have fun and celebrate: just do NOT get behind the wheel of a car; or you; and others may/will face serious, life changing consequences.
Table of Contents
Opt for a Dry Celebration
The easiest way to avoid a DUI this New Year’s Eve is to avoid drinking when you are out and about. After all, you can’t get arrested for DUI if you haven’t had any alcoholic beverages to drink. If you choose a dry celebration this year, offer to act as a designated driver to anyone who plans to consume alcohol. Ultimately, choosing not to drink and drive is the best way to keep the roads safer for everyone. Remember that drunk driving is dangerous not just for the driver but for everyone sharing the streets with them.
Keep it Under the Legal Limit
If not drinking at all isn’t something you want to commit to, keep an eye on your consumption and stay under the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit. DUI laws vary from state to state, but here in the state of Arizona, the legal BAC is .08%. It is, however, important to note that it is still possible to be arrested for a DUI even with a BAC under the legal limit, particularly if you have caused an accident. This is the “catch-all” AZ DUI Provision Liquor/Drugs/Vapors, a/k/a “Impaired to the Slightest Degree”, and allows for a DUI even if below .08%.
While out celebrating, stay aware of how many drinks you consume per hour. You can calculate your BAC based on your weight and sex. Another way to help keep your BAC down is to make sure you eat while drinking; food will help your body digest the alcohol. It is also a good idea to stop drinking several hours before driving to help keep your BAC under the legal limit. Regardless of this harm reduction tool, best to just NOT get behind the wheel of a car regardless of how little you think you have drunk.
Choose a Reliable Designated Driver
If you plan on drinking at any New Year’s Eve event, ask someone you trust to be your designated driver for the night. Make sure you select someone who you know won’t cave into peer pressure and will remain sober for the duration of the evening.
Uber it, Lyft It or just take a Cab
If you can’t find a designated driver, you can always rely on apps such as Uber or Lyft to get you home safely. Keep in mind that when rides are in high demand during the holidays, surge pricing can apply. Expect to pay the highest fares between midnight and 3:00 a.m. on New Year’s Eve. Also, be prepared for possible long wait times.
Stay Close
Another option to avoid driving if you plan on drinking is to find a hotel or Airbnb to stay at near your event. If you have friends or family who live in the area, another option would be to ask them if you can stay with them for the night.
There’s an App for That
There is an abundance of apps that can help you understand how impaired you are. Intoxicheck uses a set of six challenges to measure reaction times, memory, judgment, and dexterity. There are also DUI checkpoint apps to help you locate police checkpoints. Regardless of these harm reduction tools, best to just NOT get behind the wheel of a car regardless of how little you think you have drunk. If you are wondering “whether you are”sober” enough to drive – don’t drive.
Celebrate Responsibly
Remember, the best way to enjoy New Year’s Eve free of DUI consequences is not to drink and drive. Please celebrate responsibly. The above information is intended to help you avoid a DUI arrest. However, If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI, a knowledgeable attorney can build a strong legal case tailored to your personal circumstances.
Don’t DELAY: Call Jeff GOULD Law, the Attorney In YOUR Corner – TODAY!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this blog/site is not intended to be legal advice. It is for general informational use only. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your situation. Further, this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.