Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
Michigan DUI attorneys know that nearly every holiday results in an increase in intoxicated driving, whether Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, or New Year’s. While the long holiday weekend is just coming to an end, a news article at AZCentral.com indicates that so far, the number of DUI arrests in Arizona are down from the same time a year ago.
On Sunday, the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety announced that across the state, a total of 216 DUI arrests were made between Friday and Saturday; this is down by 100 arrests from the same time period in 2014, when 316 arrests had been made. Of the 216 individuals arrested, 69 were considered cases of DUI extreme in which those arrested had a BAC of 0.15 or higher, nearly double the legal limit of 0.08 percent.
Arizona police did pull over more underage motorists suspected of drunk driving; in fact, there was a 55% increase in the number of minor consumption arrests and possession citations. During the two-day period, officers across Arizona made more than 6,100 traffic stops.
Memorial Day is a long holiday weekend when many people get together with friends and family to enjoy outdoor grilling, local festivals, camping, and other activities that often involve the consumption of alcohol. While most of these celebrations end safely, there is a marked increase in DUI arrests, along with accidents resulting in injury or death.
It is never a good idea to operate a vehicle after consuming alcohol, however if you find yourself arrested or charged with driving under the influence, it is important to work with an experienced Michigan DUI attorney who will discuss your legal options with you and help mitigate the damage. A DUI conviction not only results in fines, driver’s license suspension, and other punishment, but also leaves you with a criminal record. Speak with a lawyer as soon as you have been arrested, and politely decline to answer questions asked by police.