Drunk Driving Is Not Necessary to Celebrate Independence Day

 Posted on June 19, 2015 in DUI

In just a couple of weeks, the United States of America will celebrate its 239^th birthday. Despite the various issues facing our country and regardless of the disagreements between political parties, we are proud to be Americans and are grateful for the many freedoms we have been afforded. At the Law Offices of Tedone and Morton, P.C., we look forward to the celebration our independence this July 4^th as much as anyone, and we encourage you to enjoy the festivities safely. Be careful around the grill and with fireworks, but, most importantly, do not drink and drive. A DUI is simply not worth it.

Deadly Holiday Weekend

While specific estimates tend to vary from source to source, the overall concern is undeniable. Independence Day is among the deadliest days of the year on the countries roadways. According to an analysis conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more people were killed in motor vehicle accidents on July 4^th between 2000 and 2009 than on any other day of the year.

Of course, a large number of factors can contribute to an auto accident. In fact, the sheer volume of travel associated with Independence Day undoubtedly plays a role in such statistics. However, an estimated 40 percent of all traffic fatalities on the Fourth of July involve at least one driver with a blood alcohol content over the legal limit. In terms of drunk-driving deaths, the summer holiday is the second deadliest day of the year, behind only New Year's Day.

Prevent Drunk Driving and DUI

There are some things you can do to avoid putting yourself and your family in a potentially dangerous situation. Before and during your celebration, be sure to:

• Choose a designated driver: Communicate with friends or family and find someone who will not be drinking. Do not be afraid to hand over your keys even if it means you will have to pick up your car the next day. Your safety is worth a minor inconvenience;
• Know your limits: The threshold for DUI in Illinois is 0.08 percent BAC, but alcohol affects people in different ways. If you are buzzed, you are drunk. Do not drive;
• Call a cab: You may have to wait a while, since taxis are likely to be very busy on holidays, but cabs offer a safe, convenient way to get home for someone who has had too much to drink. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft may be able to decrease your waiting time. Getting a ride to the celebration, as well, will ensure you cannot drive yourself home, even if you want to; and
• Do not ride with a drunk driver: Finding someone “less drunk” than you is just as dangerous as driving yourself. Despite the common protests, people do not drive better when they are drunk. Find another way home or sleep on a couch for a few hours.

Despite the dangers, people throughout the area will still continue to drink and drive this Fourth of July, but you do not have to be among them. However, if you do get charged with DUI, we are ready and willing to help. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Will County to schedule a free initial consultation. We will review your case, help you understand your options, and fight to protect your rights throughout the process.