DUIs are a common problem during the holiday season for many licensed professionals. Don’t let lockdowns and stay-at-home orders fool you.  There are still drunk drivers on the road.  There may be fewer cars on the road, but it is still a concern.

Just recently, a young woman is accused of causing a deadly accident in Newport Beach.  Police believe the driver may have been under the influence.   

Sadly, we see this situation play out every year.  Distracted by holiday get-togethers, many are less vigilant when they are driving and tend to make bad decisions. As a result, DUI arrests are at their highest. As a licensed professional, licensing boards do not take these convictions lightly, and your holiday mistakes could impact your career for years to come. Here are the top holidays you are most likely to receive a DUI.

Christmas

Although it may feel like the most wonderful time of the year for many people, Christmas is one of the most dangerous days to be on the road. It is estimated that there are at least 45 DUI accidents per day during the three-day Christmas holiday period. 

New Year’s Eve / Day

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are at the top of the list for the most dangerous two-days to be on the road. On average, 31.7 DUI-related deaths occur per day during this time period and the number of DUI arrests climbs each year. 

Thanksgiving and Blackout Wednesday

With the adoption of Blackout Wednesday, also known as “Drinksgiving,” the week of Thanksgiving continues to be one of the most dangerous times to drive. Toasts with friends and family begin long before dinner. However, many people still plan to grab last-minute food items from the store or attend multiple gatherings. As a result, drunk-driving crashes and arrests peak during Thanksgiving week. 

Fourth of July

Independence day is annually the deadliest day of the summer. In addition to firework accidents, more than 50% of DUI-related accidents occur during the Fourth of July weekend. Most of these arrests even occur at the beginning of the festivities when alcohol and marijuana consumption is first introduced. 

St. Patrick’s Day

Over 50% of people celebrate St. Patrick’s day every year and drink an average of 4 beverages. Since this holiday celebrates binge-drinking, the likelihood of someone getting behind the wheel intoxicated is at its highest.

Related Article: Will My Nursing License Be Suspended for a DUI?

What To Do if You Receive a DUI

As a licensed professional, you do not want to be arrested for a DUI. The CHP is on high alert during these holidays for drivers that shouldn’t be behind the wheel. The best way to avoid jail time, fines, and facing your licensing board is to look for alternative transportation options. However, if you are arrested for a DUI, there is still a chance at protecting your career. Our team at Unlock Legal has been working with licensed professionals for years to help them get back on their feet after they’ve made a mistake.

We’ve stood before licensing boards to petition for reinstatement, fight against license denial, and even manage administrative hearings when a professional’s license is under investigation. Our priority is to get you the best outcome possible and handle your case from beginning to end – no matter how long it takes.

Unlock Legal provides focused representation in criminal defense and defense for California licensed professionals. Contact Unlock Legal today or give us a call at 949-268-2857 to speak with a professional about your case and your unique needs. You’ll find we are compassionate, easy to talk to, and willing to help in any capacity we can.

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