The holidays are a time for celebration. But unfortunately, DUI arrests often spike in Nashville. Between office parties, family dinners, and festive nights out, the combination of alcohol and traffic can land someone in serious legal trouble.
If you’re planning to celebrate, make sure to stay safe. Here is what to know before you hit the road in Nashville to avoid holiday DUIs.
Why DUIs Increase During This Time of Year
The holidays bring more alcohol, traffic, and chances to make a mistake. Some of the reasons DUI arrests spike during the season include:
- More social events: Parties and gatherings can involve drinking. Even a few drinks can put you over the legal limit.
- Extra law enforcement presence: Officers know the holidays are high-risk times. That means sobriety checkpoints and patrols increase.
- Late nights and fatigue: Holiday schedules are hectic. When you combine alcohol with tired drivers, that can be a recipe for disaster.
- Travel stress: Crowded roads, unfamiliar routes, and holiday chaos make mistakes more likely.
When you know the risks, that is the first step in avoiding a serious problem.
Tennessee’s DUI Laws
Like most states, Tennessee takes driving under the influence offenses very seriously. The legal limit is 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for drivers over 21. Commercial drivers have a lower limit (0.04%), and drivers under 21 face zero tolerance.
Even those first-time offenses can lead to severe consequences. You could face up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, fines up to $350, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education, and possibly vehicle impoundment.
And if there are aggravating factors, like high BAC, accidents, minors in the car, or prior offenses, these can increase penalties.
Also, Tennessee’s implied consent law means refusing a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer, after being lawfully arrested can lead to automatic license suspension. That is separate from the DUI charge, so you can have the possibility of facing two charges.
What Type of Mistakes Do People Make?
Even the most careful drivers make mistakes that can make a DUI case much worse. You want to watch out for:
- Underestimating alcohol: Only having a drink or two can still put you over the limit.
- Talking too much at the scene: Police will often use your own words against you. Make sure to keep answers brief and factual.
- Ignoring your legal rights: If you wait too long to call an attorney, that can limit your defense options.
- Refusing chemical tests without understanding consequences: Refusal has direct consequences under Tennessee law, even if field sobriety tests are voluntary.
When you are aware of these mistakes, they can save you from serious headaches.
Prevent a Holiday DUI
If you want to avoid a holiday DUI, make sure to plan ahead:
- Designate a sober driver or use rideshare services.
- Know your limits since alcohol affects everyone differently.
- Consider staying overnight if you’re at a party or family event far from home.
- Be mindful of medications. Some prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs can intensify alcohol’s effects.
A little planning goes a long way in keeping you and everyone else on the road safe.
Why You Need Legal Help
If you’re pulled over, a DUI can start to become overwhelming, with criminal penalties, license issues, and insurance consequences piling up. You want to have an experienced Nashville DUI attorney on your side.
Remember that early legal help can make a huge difference in how your case plays out.
Stay Safe This Holiday Season
The holidays are about enjoying time with loved ones, not court dates or fines. Now that you know what to do before hitting the road in Nashville, you can keep a small mistake from turning into a life-changing problem.
If you’re facing a DUI in Nashville, whether during the holidays or any other time, you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer. At Erik Herbert Law, we are here to help. We will work to protect your rights and fight to minimize the consequences. Reach out to us today to learn about your legal options.
