According to some experts, the holiday season is the worst time of year for DUI arrests. There are typically a lot of holiday parties around this time, and people often partake in wine and other alcohol as part of the festivities. Although you may not avoid embarrassing yourself at the office Christmas party, there are a few things you can do to avoid being charged with a DUI and needing a DUI Defense Attorney in Wichita KS.
The primary thing you can do is avoid driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, particularly if you have over-imbibed. If you know you will be drinking at a party, go with a friend or family member who doesn’t–or is not planning to–drink. Another option is to take a taxi or use mass transportation to get to your destination. This will help you avoid the temptation to get behind the wheel.
Very few people plan to drink excessively. If you find you’ve had a little too much, then look for alternative ways to get home. Ask a friend to drive you home, call a taxicab, or take the subway. If you know the host well, ask if you can spend the night. Most people would prefer you crash on their couch than be out on the road intoxicated.
This is the time of year when law enforcement agencies set up checkpoints to catch people who are driving under the influence. If you do drink and find yourself pulled over for a suspected DUI, remain calm and be polite to the officer. Avoid incriminating yourself by exerting your Fifth Amendment right to refuse to answer any question posed to you. Admitting you had a drink or two will not help and will only strengthen the prosecution’s case against you.
You can refuse to participate in field sobriety tests, but Kansas law states you can be charged with a felony if you refuse to consent to a breathalyzer test. If you are arrested and charged with a DUI, contact an attorney as soon as possible. Visit us to see how an experienced DUI Defense Attorney in Wichita, KS can help you prevail against the charges.
