Going Out This Labor Day? Here Is How You Can Avoid a DUI Charge
August 31, 2022
Labor Day is an occasion to honor the accomplishments of American workers. It also marks the unofficial end of summer and the opportunity to enjoy cookouts and warm beach days. Alcohol drinks may be served at these festivities. If you plan to drink this Labor Day Weekend, take steps to prevent driving under the influence (DUI), avoid an accident, and keep you and those around you safe.
Labor Day is among the top five most dangerous days for drunk driving violations. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 38 percent of fatal traffic accidents in 2019 involved an alcohol-impaired driver. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to avoid a DUI. Here are a few practical ways to have fun and be responsible if you plan to consume alcohol this holiday weekend:
- Have a plan: Once you start drinking, you are more likely to make bad decisions. Make arrangements for a sober ride home before the fun begins. If you have a plan in place, you will be less inclined to risk driving home after drinking.
- Use a rideshare service: Today, arranging a safe and sober ride home is as easy as clicking a button. Order a Lyft, Uber, or taxi to transport you if you have been drinking alcohol. Just be sure to confirm the vehicle and license plate when the vehicle arrives. Ask the driver to confirm your name, and always ride with a friend.
- Sleep it off: If you are not celebrating at home this Labor Day Weekend, consider booking a hotel room nearby, or stay overnight at the party if you can. A hotel stay may seem like an extra expense, but it is nothing compared to the consequences of a DUI violation or accident.
What Should You Do if You Get Pulled Over?
Even if you pace yourself while drinking this holiday, you can still be over the legal limit. DUI laws in Pennsylvania are incredibly strict. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) in this state is 0.08 percent. For someone who weighs 140 pounds, that is the equivalent of four drinks in an hour.
Despite the legal limit, there really is no “safe” amount of alcohol to consume if you are driving. A single drink can affect decision-making. If you plan to drink at all, follow the tips above to avoid a DUI.
With that said, the reality is, mistakes happen. Not all DUI charges are valid under the law. There are several possible defenses that can be raised regarding an initial stop for DUI:
- Breathalyzer can malfunction.
- Field sobriety tests may have been improperly administered.
- Police may not have had cause to stop the driver.
If you are stopped for a DUI this Labor Day weekend, it is vital that you hire a criminal defense lawyer to lead your case. A DUI charge has a lasting impact on your driving record and can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. A skilled lawyer will assess your situation and recommend the best course of action to minimize DUI consequences.
West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Represents Drivers Charged With Labor Day DUIs
A DUI charge is unfortunate, but help is available. Our West Chester criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes can help you fight a charge. Call us at 610-431-7900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. Located in West Chester, Pennsylvania, we represent clients in Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, Lehigh County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County.