One of the worst possible ways to start off the New Year is with a DUI charge. Around the holidays and especially on New Year’s Eve, police are more likely to be out patrolling the roads, forcefully pursuing any individuals they suspect have been drinking and driving. If you find yourself with a DUI charge, not only will you be spending the night in jail away from your friends and family, but you will also be faced with steep charges and dire consequences that will follow you into the New Year.
Types of DUI Charges
Did you know that you do not have to be in a car to get cited for a DUI? In fact, you can get cited for driving under the influence in numerous types of vehicles. The legal definition of a vehicle “an instrument of conveyance,” so essentially, any device used to transport you from one place to another can be considered a vehicle and can be grounds for a DUI charge if you are caught driving intoxicated. Below are just some of the alternative methods of transportation in which you can get cited for a DUI:
- Motorcycles
- Mopeds
- Bicycles
- Boats
- Golf carts
Consequences of a DUI
The consequences of a DUI can be life altering. A DUI conviction can mean heavy fines and potential jail time, not to mention your record will be tarnished and your license will be suspended. While the consequences will depend on your specific case, you can expect up to $2,000 in penalties and a one-year licenses suspension for your first offense. If you have a prior offense, fines can reach upwards of $5,000, plus a year in jail and a 10-year license suspension.
How to Avoid a DUI
You can still have a great time ringing in the New Year without driving drunk. If you are choosing to drink this New Year’s Eve, consider the following tips to keep you DUI-free and safe from harm:
- Have a designated driver before you go out for the night.
- Pre-program a list of cab companies in your phone.
- Consider hiring a limo if you will be partying with a group of friends. The cost of splitting a limo is much less than paying DUI charges.
- Utilize public transportation if it is available.
- Call AAA and utilize the ‘Tow-To-Go’ service. Drivers can call AAA and have their vehicle towed anywhere (home or a friend’s home for example) within a 10 mile radius.
When to Hire an Attorney
Fines and jail time aside, DUIs pose a threat to both you and the other drivers on the road. Do not risk your life or someone else’s life because you choose to drive under the influence. At LMW Attorneys, we want you and your loved ones to have a safe and happy holiday season, so think before you drink and drive. If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges, it is imperative to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side. The LMW Attorneys are experienced in handling various DUI charges. To learn more about how we can defend your rights, call us today at 727-478-4125 or contact us for a free consultation today.