Thanksgiving is a Terrible Time for a DUI: Tips From An Attorney This Holiday Season
By Sullivan Rice
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting. For many, the holiday celebrations include turkey, pie, and maybe a few drinks. But before you raise your glass, it’s important to remember that this festive time of year also brings an increase in drunk driving incidents. The Thanksgiving weekend, especially the night before, is one of the most dangerous times to be on the road due to alcohol-related accidents. If you’re planning to celebrate with a drink, here are a few important reasons why you should avoid driving under the influence this Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Weekend DUI Statistics: A Growing Concern
Thanksgiving week sees a significant spike in DUIs and alcohol-related accidents. In fact, the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is known for the highest rates of impaired driving incidents. "Black Wednesday," or the night before Thanksgiving, has become notorious as one of the biggest drinking nights of the year. With increased beer sales and a higher volume of drivers on the road, the combination can lead to a dangerous situation.
While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks involved in drinking and driving.
Why You Should Reconsider Alcohol This Thanksgiving
There are many reasons why it’s worth considering alternative ways to enjoy Thanksgiving without the risk of a DUI Attorneys .
1. Strict Consequences for a DUI
In New Jersey, a DUI conviction comes with serious penalties. Even for a first-time offense, you could face jail time, fines, and the suspension of your driver's license. If you have prior offenses, the consequences only become harsher. These penalties can have a long-lasting impact on your life, affecting everything from your driving privileges to your job prospects.
2. The Risk of Injury
Alcohol impairs your judgment and slows your reaction time, making it much more likely that you could cause an accident. Auto accidents involving alcohol tend to result in more serious injuries, and the consequences of hurting someone else can be devastating—not only emotionally, but financially as well. You could be held responsible for the medical costs, legal fees, and other expenses related to the accident.
3. A DUI Can Haunt You Long After the Holiday
A DUI conviction is not something you can simply put behind you. It can affect your life for years to come. You may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which comes at your own expense. Your car insurance premiums will likely skyrocket, and the charges could even impact your employment opportunities. A criminal record for DUI could affect your reputation and your future.
4. Missing Out on Holiday Celebrations
If you're arrested for DUI, you might miss out on important holiday festivities. Due to court closures around the holiday season, if you're arrested on a weeknight, you may have to wait until the following Monday to see a judge. That means your Thanksgiving could be spent waiting for an arraignment, missing out on the very celebrations you were looking forward to.
Tips to Avoid a DUI This Thanksgiving
While you don’t have to skip the drinks to enjoy Thanksgiving, you do need to take steps to protect yourself and others. Here are a few ways to avoid a DUI this year:
1. Plan for Alternative Transportation
Designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get home safely if you plan to drink. There are plenty of affordable and convenient options to avoid driving under the influence.
2. Know Your Limits
If you’re going to drink, know your limits. Keep track of how much you’ve consumed and understand how factors like your body weight, food intake, and medications can affect your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If you’re unsure whether you’re over the limit, don’t risk it—arrange for a safe way home.
3. Walk or Stay Local
If you're celebrating at a bar or gathering near your home, consider walking if it’s safe to do so. You can enjoy the holiday without worrying about getting behind the wheel.
4. Host a Safe Celebration
If you're hosting Thanksgiving at your home, encourage your guests to plan ahead for a safe way to get home if they’re drinking. You can provide a safe and responsible atmosphere while also helping others avoid the risk of a DUI.
With these precautions in mind, you can enjoy Thanksgiving without putting yourself or others in harm’s way.
If you've been arrested for DWI and have questions about your stop, our knowledgeable DWI lawyers are here to help. Contact Jack Rice Defense today to learn how we can protect your rights and navigate your legal situation. You can always give us a call art 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your life is on the line, make sure Jack Rice Defense is by your side.
