The holidays are comprised of festive celebrations with loved ones, gift exchanges, and plenty of joy. However, alcohol consumption—especially in excessive amounts—is also part of the season, which typically results in an increase in drunk driving accidents and DUI/OWI arrests.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 885 people died in drunk driving crashes in December 2017. During Christmas (between December 22, 2017 and December 26, 2017) and New Year’s Day (between December 30, 2016 and January 3, 2017) holiday periods in 2017, there was an increase in fatal drunk driving accidents (267) compared to any other holiday period that year.
In order to combat drunk driving fatalities, police departments in Michigan and other states have sent more officers on patrol and set up more OWI checkpoints during long holiday weekends to arrest intoxicated motorists and keep others on the road safe.
To avoid spending time behind bars this holiday season, here are several ways you can avoid an OWI arrest:
- Do not drink at all – If you remain sober throughout the entire event, there is no way you can get arrested for drunk driving. You could also be a designated driver for others who can’t drive home once the event is over.
- Ask someone to be your designated driver – If drinking is part of the itinerary, ask a friend or family member who won’t be consuming any alcohol to be your designated driver.
- Request getting picked up from a rideshare app – Whether you can’t find a designated driver or the person who is supposed to take you home succumbed to peer pressure, you can also request a ride from your cellphone using the Uber or Lyft app. Keep in mind, the highest prices for rides happen from midnight until 3:00 AM.
- Spend the night away from home – If the festivities occur somewhere far away from your home, either ask a friend who lives close by if you could sleepover. If you can’t find a place to spend the night, simply book a room at a hotel or motel within walking distance.
- Be the host – Rather than driving to an event, host the party at your place. Ensure your guests can spend the night if they’re too drunk to drive or ask if they have already made driving arrangements to get home safe.
If you have been charged with an OWI in Bay City, contact Gower Law PLC today at (989) 244-4333 to let us protect your rights and future.
