According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most dangerous times to drive throughout the year. Law enforcement officers are on high alert during Thanksgiving and all throughout the holiday season, aggressively targeting drivers who are suspected of drunk driving and other traffic violations.
There are several reasons for the increase in DUI-related accidents around the holidays:
- More people on the road - People are busy getting to and from holiday parties. Many of these individuals travel long distances to visit friends and families. Thanksgiving weekend is the busiest travel weekend of the year.
- Weather conditions - In many parts of the country, snow and ice make for dangerous winter driving. Decreased daylight hours in the winter also make for less visibility overall.
- Increased alcohol consumption - Drinks are often part of Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years' and other holiday celebrations. The day before Thanksgiving is known to be one of the busiest nights of the year at bars.
The lesson here is simple: Be safe on the roads. Don't drink and drive. But if something does happen - if you are arrested for drinking and driving -- remember that you have legal options.
Talk to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest to learn about your legal options. At Schweitzer & Davidian, we are highly experienced at DUI defense and challenging BAC and breathalyzer test results.
For a free in-office consultation with one of our attorneys, please complete our online contact form.