Cinco de Mayo is a popular holiday across the country, and Illinois is no exception. Many people include alcoholic beverages in their celebrations, which can have unfortunate results on the road. This can be one of the most dangerous holidays for drivers, and it is important to know what to do if you find yourself in trouble.
Many people may not think anything of one more cold beer or a shot of tequila before heading home after their Cinco d Mayo celebration, but with the increase in traffic and drunk drivers on the road, the holiday can be particularly dangerous. Law enforcement agencies across the state are on high alert during this time and will be on the lookout for anyone driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are arrested for a DUI, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney at Chicago DUI Defense. Our expert legal team will work to build an aggressive defense for your case and will fight to get the best possible result for you.
Cinco de Mayo DUI Dangers
Cinco de Mayo is one of the most dangerous holiday weekends on the calendar. Each year the holiday sees a spike in traffic accidents and drunk-driving fatalities, with these figures actually increasing in recent years. Law enforcement departments will have extra officers out looking for impaired drivers and may set up checkpoints, station officers at toll booths, and have extra cars on the road.
This is all with good reason, as each year sees a spike in drunk-driving crash fatalities. In fact, roughly 30% of fatal motor vehicle crashes over the holiday weekend involve at least one drunk driver.
Tips to Keep Yourself and Others Safe From Drunk Drivers
You can take a few simple steps to keep yourself and others on the road during the holiday:
Follow the Law
Obeying traffic laws and Illinois DUI law can help cut down on fatal crashes over the holiday weekend. You may think that you aren't over the legal limit, but that doesn't mean you are safe to drive. If you plan to drink as part of your celebration, don't get behind the wheel. If you are underage, simply avoid drinking.
The percentage of drivers on the road with elevated blood alcohol concentrations makes Cinco de Mayo a particularly deadly holiday for drivers. Following Illinois law regarding DUIs can help reduce the number of drunk drivers.
Plan Ahead
If you plan to go out for drinks, be sure you have a plan for a sober ride with a non-drinking designated driver. Assign a friend as the sober driver for the night, call a taxi, or get an Uber rather than getting behind the wheel yourself. Take the time to plan ahead for your night out and stay safe.
Keep Your Friends Safe
It can be awkward and difficult to tell a friend that they are in no condition to drive, but it is the safest option. If your friend has had one too many, do not allow them to drive for any reason. Take their keys and call a ride for them to get home safely.
Report Drunk Drivers
If you spot someone on the road who seems to be intoxicated, call the police. Look for erratic driving, tailgating, near accidents, drifting between lanes, excessively fast or slow drivers, and other signs of impaired driving.
Related Content: Illinois Drunk Driving Statistics
If you see another driver who appears to be behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol keep your distance from them, pay attention to vehicle details and license plate numbers if you are able to see them, pull over and call 911. Give law enforcement their location, the vehicle description, and a brief report of their driving behavior.
Our Firm Can Help if You Are Charged With DUI
DUI charges can carry significant and far-reaching consequences. You may face steep fines, a driver's license suspension, increased insurance rates, an impact to your personal and professional life, and even jail time. These consequences and unanticipated expenses can be more than enough to bring a sobering end to your festive holiday.
If you are arrested for a DUI you will want to find an attorney as quickly as possible. DUI cases can be complicated and, in many cases, time-sensitive legal matters making it critical that you get an experienced drunk-driving attorney to work with you soon after your arrest. At Chicago DUI Defense, we have the experience you will need to navigate the DUI process, assist you with filing any necessary documents, and build an aggressive defense against your charges. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free case consultation!
