Holiday Precautions

During the holiday season, there is often an increase in DUI arrests due to celebrations and gatherings. Here are some precautions to take to avoid legal trouble and stay safe:

1. Avoid driving under the influence and public intoxication. You can view my blog for precise legal definitions.

Plan ahead for transportation. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or use public transportation. 

Stay overnight. If you’re attending a party far from home and drinking, consider staying overnight at the host’s place or at a nearby hotel. 

Monitor your alcohol intake. Know your limits, and keep track of the number of drinks you’ve had. Avoid binge drinking. 

2. Be aware of sobriety checkpoints.

Many law enforcement agencies increase the number of DUI checkpoints during the holidays. Be aware of these and know your rights if you are stopped. Have your license, registration, and proof of insurance ready if you encounter a checkpoint.

3. Avoid aggressive behavior and conflicts.

Stay calm in crowds. The holidays can be stressful, and crowds can cause tension. Avoid confrontations in public places like shopping malls, holiday events, or bars. Watch your temper. Alcohol or stress may lead to escalated situations. If you feel yourself getting angry, step away from the situation before it gets out of hand.

4. Know the local laws and restrictions.

If you’re traveling to another state or country, be familiar with their DUI laws or other legal restrictions, such as open container laws or public intoxication rules.

5. Practice responsible party hosting. 

Limit alcohol availability. If you’re hosting a holiday party, be mindful of how much alcohol you provide and ensure that no one leaves your home intoxicated and planning to drive.

Provide non-alcoholic options. Offer a variety of drinks, including non-alcoholic options, for designated drivers and guests who prefer not to drink.

Stop serving alcohol early. Stop serving alcohol an hour or two before the party ends and switch to coffee, water, and snacks.

Be aware of your liability. In some areas, hosts can be held liable if a guest leaves their party and causes a DUI-related accident.

6. Be mindful of theft and property crimes.

Lock your car and home. During holiday shopping or travel, make sure your vehicle and home are secure. Thieves often target parked cars during this time.

Avoid flashing valuables. Don’t leave shopping bags or gifts visible in your car, and don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables in public places.

Use caution with online shopping. Be wary of fraud and phishing scams during the holiday season. Use secure websites and monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity.

 7. Avoid public intoxication. In many places, being visibly drunk in public can lead to an arrest for public intoxication, which is often heightened around the holidays due to public celebrations. Keep your drinking to a reasonable level when out in public.

8. Understand Consequences of a DUI

DUIs often come with serious consequences such as fines, loss of license, increased insurance rates, and even jail time, and can be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the offense and whether it's a repeat offense. Being proactive in avoiding a DUI is critical. 

Being mindful of these precautions will not only keep you safe but will also help you avoid unnecessary legal trouble during the holiday season.  

If you find yourself facing legal trouble this holiday season, call my number for a free consultation at 310-560-3873 so we can help you during this difficult time. 

Be safe and take precautions. Protect yourself and others. Have a happy and safe holiday.