At the end of the year, people often attend multiple holiday functions, many of which involve alcohol. Recent college graduates in their first office jobs might feel the pressure to drink with their new employers. Family members might let their guard down during the football game and drink one too many alcoholic beverages before getting into their vehicle to drive.
Perhaps an unexpected holiday event comes up and someone does not make a contingency plan to get home, deciding to risk driving just this one time. At Glasgow & Olsson, we understand that even the most responsible make the unbelievably bad choice not to take a ride share or designate a driver and that good people make mistakes. If you have been arrested for a DUI in Chicago during the holidays, we can help. Contact our law firm today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can defend your rights.
Drunk Driving Deaths Rise During the Holidays
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, an average of 300 people die in drunk driving-related crashes every year during the holiday period. The holiday period is defined as the period between Christmas and New Years’ Day. What is more, between 2012 and 2016, 14,472 people died in traffic accidents in December alone. Of those fatalities, nearly 4,000 people, or 28%, died in drunk-driving crashes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 30 people die in the U.S. every day due to car accidents related to drivers driving while under the influence. In 2012 alone, car accidents related to driving while under the influence resulted in the deaths of over 10,000.
Why Does Drunk Driving Increase During the Holidays?
Illinois residents enjoy more days off of work and take part in more activities that encourage drinking during the holidays. Illinois law enforcement greatly increases their efforts to catch drunk drivers. Sometimes, people who do not normally drink alcohol decide to do so during the holidays. Doing so can result in intoxication as those who do not normally drink may not know their limits as well as individuals who drink regularly.
Additionally, individuals who struggle with consuming too much alcohol and driving may have a more difficult time refraining during the holidays. When others are drinking around them, it can be more challenging to drink little enough to be able to drive without the threat of intoxication. Illinois frozen and icy road conditions can add to the risk of serious car accidents and DUI arrests.
Charged with a DUI Over the Holidays? We Can Help
The best way to avoid a DUI conviction in Illinois over the holiday is to come up with a plan for driving. If you are unsure whether you are too intoxicated to drive, do not take a risk. Call a ride-sharing company or a friend and ask for a ride. Dealing with a DUI over Christmas or the New Year is the last thing any Illinois resident wants. If you are facing a DUI charge this holiday season, we can help. Contact Glasgow & Olsson today to schedule your initial consultation.