As you celebrate the holiday season with friends and family, keep in mind that driving sober can help prevent tragic and life-changing consequences. Too often, holiday celebrations are spontaneously taken to the roads, which increases the risk of automobile accidents, arrests and even death. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is especially prevalent …
As you celebrate the holiday season with friends and family, keep in mind that driving sober can help prevent tragic and life-changing consequences. Too often, holiday celebrations are spontaneously taken to the roads, which increases the risk of automobile accidents, arrests and even death. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is especially prevalent during the holidays, leading to tragedy for many American families. In December 2009 alone, 753 people were killed in accidents involving drivers or motorcycle riders with BACs of .08% or higher. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Oklahoma is .08%, which means drivers with a BAC above this limit are considered intoxicated under Oklahoma law. As part of National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention month, law enforcement agencies from around the country have joined the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, in an effort to remove drugged and drunk drivers from the roadways during the holidays. Our Oklahoma City DUI attorneys urge you to drive safe this holiday season.
Tips for Enjoying a Safe Holiday Season
One of the most dangerous aspects of drinking and driving is that many people believe they can still operate a motor vehicle safely after having a few drinks. However, even consuming a small amount of alcohol from one or two drinks can impair your ability to drive. By following these five tips, you can enjoy a safe holiday and prevent unnecessary alcohol- and drug-related accidents.
- Plan a safe way home before the holiday party begins
- Before you leave home, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys behind
- If you have been drinking, call a taxi, use public transportation, or call a sober friend or relative
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, report it to the police
- If you know someone who is about to drive under the influence, take their keys and help them get home safely
Remember, if you are hosting a holiday party, you can be held liable if a guest leaves your party and is involved in an alcohol- or drug-related collision. December is the most dangerous driving month of the entire year. Don’t add to the danger by driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Penalties for Drinking and Driving in Oklahoma City
Drunk driving comes with a long list of consequences, including accidents, arrests, court costs, attorney fees, increased insurance premiums, vehicle repairs, loss of driving privileges, and injuring or taking the life of another person. In Oklahoma in particular, the laws and penalties associated with drunk driving are severe; punishment for a DUI conviction can range a driver’s license suspension to jail time. Regardless of how well you think you can drive after drinking, be aware that law enforcement agencies are gearing up for the holidays by adding more patrols on the roads. The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign will be put into action beginning December 16, and will run through January 2 to include New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day as well. If you are stopped by an officer during this time, you will likely be subjected to a sobriety test. Regardless of what your party plans are, your best bet is to drive sober so you don’t have to worry about hiring one of our Oklahoma DUI lawyers this holiday season.