Avoiding Drinking and Driving During the Holidays
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time when the risk of drinking and driving increases. With holiday parties, family gatherings, and end-of-year festivities, it’s easy to lose track of how much you’ve had to drink. Unfortunately, even one bad decision can have serious consequences. In Minnesota, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense, especially during the holidays when law enforcement steps up patrols. St. Paul criminal defense lawyer Mark D. Kelly wants to help you avoid the dangers of drinking and driving by offering some practical tips for staying safe this holiday season.
Tips for Avoiding Drinking and Driving
Before heading out to a holiday party, it’s important to have a plan in place to avoid drinking and driving. Here are some ways you can celebrate responsibly and make sure everyone gets home safely:
- Plan for a Designated Driver: One of the easiest and most reliable ways to avoid drinking and driving is to designate someone in your group who will stay sober and drive everyone home. Make this decision before the night starts to ensure everyone knows the plan.
- Use a Ride-Share Service or Cab: If you don’t have a designated driver, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are great alternatives. You can also opt for a traditional taxi service. Scheduling your ride ahead of time can prevent the temptation to drive yourself home after drinking.
- Arrange to Stay Overnight: If you’re going to a friend’s house or attending a holiday party far from home, consider arranging to stay overnight. Many hosts are happy to offer guests a place to stay to avoid the risks of driving under the influence.
- Monitor Your Drinking: If you’re planning to drive yourself home, it’s important to carefully monitor how much alcohol you’re consuming. Minnesota’s legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, and even a small amount of alcohol can impair your ability to drive. If you have any doubts about your sobriety, it’s best not to get behind the wheel.
- Alternate Alcohol with Water: Drinking water or non-alcoholic beverages between alcoholic drinks can help you stay in control. It won’t prevent intoxication entirely, but it can slow the process and give you more time to make responsible decisions.
Minnesota Holiday DWI Statistics
The holidays are a busy time for Minnesota law enforcement. Each year, the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day sees a significant increase in DWI arrests as officers ramp up patrols to target impaired drivers. In 2022, more than 2,228 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence during the holiday season.
A DWI conviction can have lasting consequences, including fines, jail time, license suspension, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. For a first-time DWI offense in Minnesota, penalties can include up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties, including longer jail time and more significant fines. These statistics highlight the importance of making safe decisions around alcohol, especially during the holidays when enforcement is at its peak.
Stay Safe and Avoid a DWI This Holiday Season
By planning ahead and making smart choices, you can avoid the dangers of drinking and driving during the holiday season. Don’t let a fun night out turn into a legal nightmare. Whether it’s using a ride-share service, designating a sober driver, or staying overnight, there are plenty of options to help you stay safe and avoid a DWI charge.
Contact an Experienced DWI Defense Attorney
If you do find yourself facing DWI charges, it’s important to act quickly. Mark D. Kelly is an experienced St. Paul criminal defense attorney who can help guide you through the legal process and protect your rights. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been charged before, don’t navigate it alone. Contact the Law Office of Mark D. Kelly today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.