Social activities during the holidays are often more frequent than at other times of the year. The holidays can bring work parties, gatherings with friends, and special time spent with families. This can often lead to social events where alcoholic beverages are enjoyed.
During this time of year, particularly, the authorities have their eyes pealed for unsafe motorists. So, it is crucial that you take steps to operate your vehicle safely to avoid a DUI charge. Listed below is our best advice for staying safe and out of trouble during the holidays.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Charges
In West Virginia, there are DUI laws in place to keep those who share the roadways safe. The laws can be complex, so it is important to realize you could be breaking the law unknowingly. Familiarizing yourself with West Virginia’s expectations concerning drinking and driving is a solid first step when avoiding breaking laws.
Even if you drink very little, you could be jeopardizing yourself and could be at risk for a criminal charge. Sobriety checkpoints pop up far more often during the holiday season than at other times of the year. DUI is not simply a fine or admonishment, like a parking ticket. Accidents caused by driving under the influence can result in criminal charges where the defendant faces jail time, loss of their license, monetary fines, and probation.
Having a Holiday Drink
There are some things to keep in mind over the holidays if you’re going to be enjoying an adult beverage. By following the tips listed here, you can avoid an unwanted DUI.
- The typical human takes two hours for their body to metabolize a shot of liquor fully. Around three drinks in an hour can render you legally drunk. Some people require even more time, depending on their age, weight, and tolerance.
- Avoid driving after drinking anything at all. If you must drive, make sure you give yourself several hours for the effects of the alcohol to wear off before you operate your vehicle.
- Drinking on an empty stomach is not a good idea. You will be able to slow down how fast you absorb alcohol as you eat, meaning that you are less affected by the beverages you consume.
- Take advantage of public transportation if it is available in your area. Then, you can enjoy yourself with less thought about driving safely.
- Use a rideshare app to get you home or to your next stop safely. Using Lyft and Uber during the holidays is a good way to allow the driver to earn extra money and hold onto the money you might otherwise spend on fines for a DUI.
- BAC calculators can help you determine whether you are over the legal limit or not. If you feel the effects of alcohol, avoid operating a vehicle, even if the tracker assures you that you are under the legal limit.
- Assign a designated driver. Having a DD along can ensure everyone gets to and from their event without the threat of a DUI.
Legal Help If You Are Charged With a DUI
It is unfortunate, but sometimes, arrests for DUI happen. If you find yourself facing charges for driving under the influence, you must contact an attorney who can help you move forward. The Charleston West Virginia car accident attorneys at Salango Law are here and ready to help.
Reach out with your questions or concerns today. We are ready to help with your case during the holidays or at other times throughout the year.