The roads were relatively quiet last year during the holiday season. But the same cannot be said in 2021. Family, friends and work colleagues are once again gathering for holiday celebrations. It also means that there’s once again a higher-than-average chance for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Local and state law agencies are aware of this and will be on the lookout for potential OUI/DUI/DWI cases.
Those arrested and charged may feel a sense of embarrassment or shame. The driver may try to keep it a secret from friends and family. Nevertheless, about 1.5 million U.S. drivers are charged with driving under the influence each year. Defendants come in many forms, ranging from professional athletes like Johnny Damon (who made national news) to a next-door neighbor here in Andover.
Common misperceptions
Drivers who may have celebrated a little too enthusiastically may suddenly find themselves facing charges as well as variety of misperceptions. They include:
- The driver is an addict or alcoholic.
- The driver often drives when they are above the legal limit.
- The driver committed other crimes in the past.
Do not let these charges ruin the holiday
Those pulled over can see their lives change overnight. So, it is essential not to avoid the problem or pretend that it did not happen. A positive first step is working with a knowledgeable attorney who has experience representing clients facing these charges. They can go over the details of the stop to determine if law enforcement had probable cause. They can determine if the officer followed all proper procedures, including the correct administration of the Breathalyzer test. They can also help ensure that the penalties are appropriate for the violation, including alternatives to significant fines or lengthy license suspensions.
