Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog
Signs of Intoxicated Drivers: Tips for Road Safety During the Holidays
Many of us drive to and from holiday parties during the holiday season and are busy running errands. Unfortunately, during the holiday season, drunk driving can put other drivers at risk of being injured in a car accident. Drivers may drink too much alcohol at a party or work event and decide to drive anyway, putting everyone else on the road in danger. Understanding the signs of intoxicated drivers can help you protect yourself on North Carolina roads this holiday season.
- Erratic Lane Changes
One of the clearest indicators of a driver under the influence is erratic lane changes. Actions such as swerving, drifting, or making sudden and unpredictable lane shifts can suggest that the driver is impaired and has difficulty controlling their vehicle. This type of behavior typically arises from the compromised judgment and motor skills caused by intoxication. If you notice a vehicle weaving in and out of lanes without signaling or making abrupt adjustments, it is a warning sign that the driver may be intoxicated. Being vigilant about these behaviors can help you keep a safe distance and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Driving Late on Holidays is Always More Dangerous
Holiday weekends are known for a rise in drunk driving incidents. Celebrations during Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Thanksgiving often involve alcohol consumption, which increases the number of intoxicated drivers on the road. Being aware of these peak times can help you plan your travel more safely. For example, avoiding late-night drives during these holidays or choosing public transportation can significantly reduce your risk of encountering a drunk driver. Being informed about these high-risk periods is the first step to ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones.
- Driving at Inconsistent Speeds
One typical sign of impaired driving is inconsistent speed. Drivers who are intoxicated often struggle to keep a steady pace. They might accelerate or decelerate without a clear reason or drive well below the speed limit. This unpredictable speed can lead to hazardous situations on the road, as other motorists may not expect these sudden fluctuations. If you observe a vehicle displaying this kind of behavior, it’s important to be cautious and think about reporting the driver to local authorities to help prevent possible danger.
- Defensive Driving Strategies at Night
Driving at night comes with increased risks, especially as the chances of encountering drunk drivers rise significantly during late hours. With bars and clubs closing around the same time, there’s often a surge of impaired drivers on the road. If you need to drive late, especially on weekends, it is crucial to stay extra alert. Watch for vehicles that show signs of intoxication, and keep a safe distance from them. It may also be wise to choose routes that steer clear of areas with a lot of nightlife to reduce your exposure to potential dangers.
- Report Suspected Drunk Driving on North Carolina Roads
If you believe a driver may be under the influence, alert the authorities to help avert possible accidents. Safely pull over and dial 911, offering as much detail as you can, including the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number. Share the specific behaviors that raised your suspicion, such as swerving or sudden changes in speed. By reporting suspected drunk drivers, you assist law enforcement in taking necessary actions to get these dangerous individuals off the road, which could save lives.
The Penalties for a DWI Conviction in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the penalties for a DWI (Driving While Impaired) conviction can be severe. They vary based on the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and any prior offenses. First-time offenders may face fines up to $200, potential jail time ranging from 24 hours to 30 days, and a one-year suspension of their driver’s license. Subsequent convictions can lead to harsher penalties, including larger fines, longer jail sentences, and extended license suspensions.
Drivers may be required to successfully complete substance abuse treatment programs. All drivers automatically consent to BAC testing when they drive a vehicle under North Carolina’s “implied consent” law. If a driver refuses to take the test, their license can be automatically suspended. Other consequences can include increased insurance rates and the potential for a lasting criminal record.
Have You Been Charged with a DWI in North Carolina? We Can Help
If you have been charged with a DWI in North Carolina, it is important you reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Do not hesitate to contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation with a skilled criminal defense attorney.
The criminal defense attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC make it their mission to zealously defend their clients on a wide range of criminal matters at both the state and federal levels. These matters may include any charge from traffic offenses; DWI/DUI; drug charges (from simple possession to possession with intent to distribute and trafficking); gun permit denials; weapons offenses; and property crimes (larceny, breaking and entering, robbery, fraud, embezzlement, white collar offenses); to sexually related offenses (indecent exposure; sexual assault, crimes against nature, removal from sex offender registry); and violent crimes (domestic violence; assault; manslaughter; homicide, murder). Other legal issues that Arnold & Smith, PLLC criminal clients may be facing include restraining orders, restraining order and probation violations, expungements; appeals; and immigration issues related to criminal charges. Our criminal defense attorneys are passionate about ensuring that individuals empower themselves by being informed about their constitutional rights, and stand at the ready to fight in the defense of those facing criminal charges.
Source:
https://www.ncleg.net/enactedlegislation/statutes/html/bysection/chapter_20/gs_20-138.1.html
https://www.arnoldsmithlaw.com/criminal-defense.html
Image Credit:
https://www.freeimages.com/photo/drinking-1327398
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