As we prepare for Thanksgiving and the holiday season, many of us look forward to taking time off work to celebrate with friends and family. However, while the season brings joy for most, it also marks one of the busiest times of the year for DUI enforcement in South Carolina. Police officers are ramping up DUI arrests during their annual holiday blitz.
At our office, we believe no one should face a false or unfair DUI charge, especially during these aggressive seasonal campaigns. To help you stay safe and protect your rights, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Be Aware of Police “Stakeouts” Near Bars and Restaurants
Many police officers station themselves near bars and restaurants, watching for patrons leaving the premises. While leaving a bar alone isn’t grounds for a traffic stop, even minor infractions like a burned-out taillight, failing to signal, or driving slightly over the speed limit can give them an excuse to pull you over. Keep your vehicle in top condition and follow all traffic laws to avoid being stopped unnecessarily.
2. If You’re the Designated Driver, Stay Completely Alcohol-Free
Driving friends home and want to claim you’re the designated driver? That’s a great plan—but only if you haven’t had anything to drink. Even admitting to “just two beers” can undermine your credibility. To avoid suspicion, a designated driver should always stay completely alcohol-free.
3. Know Your Rights During a Traffic Stop
If you’re pulled over, you must provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. You should also comply if asked to step out of the car. However, you’re not required to:
- Discuss whether you’ve consumed alcohol, even hours earlier.
- Disclose whether you take prescription medications.
- Perform field sobriety tests.
- Take a breathalyzer test (you have the right to refuse it under South Carolina law).
4. Be Extra Cautious Late at Night
Driving late at night or early in the morning increases your chances of being pulled over. After midnight, fewer cars are on the road, and police know the likelihood of encountering impaired drivers is higher. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 5% of drivers on the road after midnight have a BAC of 0.08 or higher.
5. Avoid Bringing Personal Cups or Tumblers While Driving
Carrying a personal cup, tumbler, or travel mug can immediately raise police suspicion. Even if it contains tea or another non-alcoholic beverage, officers may assume it’s an open container of alcohol and initiate a DUI investigation.
How We Can Help
If you’re facing a DUI charge in Lexington, Columbia, or surrounding areas, we’re here to help. Our office provides experienced legal representation to protect your rights and build a strong defense.
- License Suspension: If your license was suspended during your arrest, we can often help you regain driving privileges within just a few days.
- Defense Strategies: We explore every option to reduce or dismiss charges, including examining the legality of the stop, the accuracy of testing devices, and procedural errors by law enforcement.
- Free Consultations: We’ll review your case and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Every day after an arrest matters—don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future. Give us a call today at (803) 359-3301.