The Fourth of July is one of the most enjoyable holidays each year, celebrating our nation’s independence with family and friends. It’s a terrific day to get together for a barbecue and to watch the fireworks. It can be hard to imagine anything going wrong on July Fourth, besides perhaps hurting yourself with a firework or being arrested for DUI.
In Louisiana, police take the possibility of drinking and driving very seriously and are known to set up checkpoints on July 4. While enjoying some beers and other drinks during the holiday celebration is a popular pastime, Independence Day has become one of the deadliest in the nation for drunk driving accidents.
The National Traffic Highway Safety Administration notes that during the 2017 holiday, 237 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes. Consuming alcohol during the holiday and then getting behind the wheel of a car puts everyone in danger, including the driver. So here are some tips for how to enjoy your July 4 holiday while doing it safely, and without risking a DUI.
Introduction to Holiday Risks
The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is a time for celebration and festivities across the United States. However, it’s also a period when the risks of drunk driving and impaired driving accidents significantly increase.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), July is the deadliest month for drunk driving crashes, with the Fourth of July weekend being particularly hazardous. The combination of increased alcohol consumption, social gatherings, and travel during this holiday weekend contributes to the heightened risk of drunk driving accidents.
Understanding the Increased Risks of Drunk Driving on July 4
On July 4, the likelihood of encountering drunk drivers on the roads is higher due to the widespread consumption of alcohol during celebrations. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) considers the Fourth of July the most dangerous day to drive, underscoring the need for vigilance and responsible behavior. Law enforcement agencies often set up sobriety checkpoints to deter and arrest impaired drivers, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead for a safe ride home. Designating a sober driver or using public transportation can significantly reduce the risk of drunk driving crashes.
Statistics and Facts About Holiday-Related DUI Incidents
Statistics from the NHTSA and IIHS highlight the severity of the issue. For instance, in 2017, 237 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes during the Fourth of July holiday period. These numbers underscore the critical need for awareness and preventive measures. Understanding the risks and consequences of drunk driving, including the legal limits and penalties for DUI arrests, is essential for making informed decisions during the holiday. An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide guidance on navigating the legal system for those who find themselves facing DUI charges.
How Can You Avoid Getting a Drunk Driving Arrest on July 4?
While the safest way to prevent getting a DUI on the holiday is to avoid drinking alcohol, Independence Day is a time when people enjoy relaxing with a beer or their favorite drinks while attending a cookout, pool party, or fireworks display. It is important to monitor your alcohol intake during the holiday to maintain safe consumption levels.
You may choose to do just that, but keep in mind that alcohol and operating a vehicle do not mix. In Louisiana, local police step up their patrols on this holiday, so if you’re hoping to inconspicuously drive home after drinking, you’re taking a serious risk of being investigated for DUI while also putting lives at risk. More people are involved in drunk driving accidents during July compared to other months, making it crucial to be extra cautious.
Fortunately, there are ways to avoid serious risk-taking on July Fourth.
Find An Alternative Ride
If you’re traveling somewhere and know there will be alcohol at the party — and you plan to drink — find an alternative means of transportation to avoid driving after consuming alcohol. If you’re traveling with family or friends, select a designated driver who doesn’t plan to drink and have that person be responsible for driving everyone to and from the event. You can also get back and forth using a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft.
If you’re traveling a long distance, check out the local motels and hotels in the area and spend the night there. Plan ahead to ensure a safe ride home and avoid potential DWIs.
Host Your Own Party
The Fourth of July can be a dangerous time to drive, even if you’re clear-headed. Family gatherings are common during this holiday, and having a few drinks is often part of the festivities. However, moderation is key. If you don’t want to be on the roads that night, become the host for a local party. Having a Fourth of July bash at your home means you don’t have to drive at all. As a good host, you might also want to consider keeping an eye on those guests who are drinking and consider arranging for an Uber or taxi service to get them home if they end up not being in a condition to drive.
If you’re driving to a party and don’t plan to drink, remember that your ride home can be a potentially dangerous one, even if you’re sober. You might not have had anything to drink, but that doesn’t mean others on the road did the same. On your way home after the party, it’s important to:
- Drive defensively
- Be aware of other drivers around you
- Keep lots of distance between your car and other vehicles
- Report any erratic driving you notice to local police
- Wear your seat buckle
It’s also important to allow yourself some additional travel time. July 4 is one of the nation’s busiest holidays and the roads can become quite congested. The more time you give yourself to get someplace, the less likely you’ll feel the temptation to speed, which can increase your risk of an accident.
Understanding Impaired Driving Laws
Impaired driving laws are in place to protect the public from the dangers of drunk driving. These laws vary by state but generally include strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other substances.
Key Legal Limits and Penalties
In most states, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. Driving with a BAC at or above this level can result in a DUI arrest, leading to penalties such as fines, jail time, and the suspension of one’s driver’s license. The legal limits and penalties serve as a deterrent to drunk driving, emphasizing the importance of staying sober or arranging for alternative transportation when consuming alcohol. For those facing DUI charges, consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can be crucial in understanding the legal process and potential outcomes.
What Happens If I Get Stopped at a Checkpoint After One Drink?
Louisiana takes drinking and driving seriously, and on a holiday like Independence Day, it’s impossible to know if you’re going to encounter a DUI checkpoint on the way home. It’s possible that one or two drinks could put you over the legal limit.
In Louisiana, the penalties for a first DUI offense include:
- A fine of $300-$1,000
- 10 days to 6 months in jail
- 12 months suspension of your driver’s license
- Possibility of a court-mandated substance abuse program
If you do approach a DUI checkpoint after one or two drinks, don’t panic and try to make a quick U-turn. That’s only going to make you look suspicious to law enforcement there and can be considered illegal. Be polite and courteous as you speak to the officers, and remain calm.
You should also wait until you’ve been asked before you reach for your driver’s license and registration, and don’t volunteer any information. If you’re asked how much you had to drink, you’re under no obligation to answer the officer. If the officer persists, you can invoke your right to speak with an attorney before answering any more questions.
If you find yourself arrested on a DUI charge on a holiday or any other time of year, it’s critical to contact an experienced Louisiana DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.
Get an Experienced DUI Defense Attorney On Your Side
Driving While Intoxicated is a very serious offense in Louisiana. The potential for jail time, a fine, and loss of your driver’s license will have a negative impact on your job and your future. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, you need a trustworthy and experienced attorney on your side.
In Louisiana, Attorney Eric G. Johnson has more than 25 years of experience protecting the rights of the criminally accused across Louisiana. He is a member of the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. To schedule a free consultation, call 318-377-1555 or contact us online.