Right before the Super Bowl weekend, the Virginia State Police reminded all Virginias, including those in Fairfax, not to drive while under the influence. Gary T. Settle, Virginia State Police superintendent, made the following statement: “It’s making the choice to drive home impaired that is the wrong way to celebrate. If someone makes the choice to drive impaired, then they also run the very likely risk of getting arrested for DUI. Getting behind the wheel when intoxicated is a choice – a choice with deadly consequences for you, your passengers and every other motorist sharing the road with you. Never drive buzzed, drunk or under the influence.”
Virginia police partnered with the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) to conduct more patrols, arresting anyone that was over the legal drinking limit. The police also went on record of providing some helpful tips for celebrators who include alcohol as part of their celebrations. These tips included designating someone as a sober driver, buckling up in case of drunk drivers, calling a taxi or using a riding service like Uber or Lyft, and many more.
Of course, many people use drinking as a way to celebrate major events like the Super Bowl. However, things can quickly get out of control. What starts out as a single drink can sometimes turn into a few drinks. Unfortunately, the bad decision of drinking while under the influence can create serious consequences in a person’s life.
For first-time offenders, a DWI can carry penalties like up to a year in jail, fines up to $2,500, probation, and a one-year license suspension. However, a person that has a BAC of 0.15 or higher can even face a mandatory jail sentence. Of course, repeat offenders will suffer greater repercussions.
When facing a DWI charge, it’s smart to hire an attorney who can help you through your case. Having a DWI charge on your record can carry repercussions outside the court system. For example, many people find it harder to find employment following a DWI charge. Applying for loans or making your car insurance payments can also become more difficult.
An attorney can help you avoid jail time, pay fewer fines, and ensure a DWI charge doesn’t go on your record. Any attorney can also help prove your innocence if there’s reason to believe that you were falsely charged with a DWI offense.
Unfortunately, many people will misgauge how much they drank, especially during a celebration like a Super Bowl. While a couple of beers and a shot or two may not seem like a lot, you only need to have a BAC of 0.08 or higher to qualify for a DWI charge. Police are also more vigilant during busy events, meaning you should always plan ahead if you plan to celebrate outside of your own home. However, if you don’t run into legal issues, calling a Fairfax DWI lawyer from May Law, LLP is the best solution.