Blackout Wednesday is one of the most dangerous nights to drive out of the whole holiday season. Occurring the day before Thanksgiving, Blackout Wednesday results in a dramatic increase in drunk drivers traveling to holiday parties. Sadly, this uptick in impaired drivers leads to an increase in drunk driving crashes and fatal accidents.
If you’ve caused a drunk driving accident, you’ll need a New York DWI defense lawyer to protect you from serious penalties like fines and jail time. That said, it would be best to avoid an alcohol-related driving accident in the first place. To do so, follow these tips on how to stay safe on the roads during Blackout Wednesday.
Avoid Drinking To Stay Safe on Blackout Wednesday
Although Blackout Wednesday is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year, it might be smart to abstain from alcohol consumption completely. Staying sober will ensure that you don’t drive while intoxicated, put the lives of others in danger, and open yourself up to criminal charges.
Remember, even having one drink can impair your judgment, reduce your ability to react to obstacles on the road, and increase the likelihood that you’ll cause an accident. To stay safe on the roads during Blackout Wednesday, say “no” to drinking entirely.
Have a Designated Driver
If you plan on going to a gathering or event with friends on Blackout Wednesday, one way to stay safe on the road is to have a designated driver. Asking one of your friends or family members to abstain from consuming alcohol can ensure you have a safe ride home from the party.
To make sure there isn’t any confusion as to who is the designated sober driver, discuss with your friends prior to the event and decide who will stay sober. That way, you won’t have to scramble at the last minute to find a ride or, even worse, feel compelled to drive yourself and your friends home while intoxicated.
Use a Rideshare Service
If you don’t have a designated driver, you might want to consider using a rideshare service like Uber, a taxi service, or public transportation. Having a driver pick you up from the gathering can stop you from getting behind the wheel while inebriated.
Whether you plan on calling an Uber, Lyft, or a taxi, it can be helpful to schedule the ride in advance. Download the rideshare app or save the taxi service’s number in your phone so it’s easier for you to get a ride when you want to leave the bar or party.
Stay at a Friend or Family Member’s House
If you are consuming alcohol at a friend or family member’s house on Blackout Wednesday, the best road safety tip is not to drive on the road at all.
Instead of driving while impaired, ask your friend or family member if you can stay the night at their house. Staying the night will allow you to sober up so you are able to drive safely in the morning.
Follow Safe Driving Practices
Even if you abstain from drinking alcohol on Blackout Wednesday, you’ll still want to take measures to stay safe on the road. Since others will likely be driving with alcohol in their system, you’ll want to take every precaution you can to avoid contributing to a serious accident.
Here’s what you can do to drive safely on the biggest drinking holiday of the year:
- Don’t exceed the speed limit
- Wear a seat belt
- Avoid distracted driving
- Drive with caution in inclement weather
- Practice defensive driving
- Report the license plates of reckless drivers to the police
What To Do if You’ve Been Charged With a DWI on Blackout Wednesday
While following the above-mentioned road safety tips can help you avoid an accident on Blackout Wednesday, there’s always a chance you’ll make the mistake of driving under the influence. If you drove drunk, caused an accident, and were charged with a DWI, you’re probably worried about your future.
Depending on your situation, a DWI conviction could leave you with expensive fines, license suspension, and even time in jail. Fortunately, a DWI defense attorney from New York can take on your case and work hard to protect you from life-altering consequences. Here’s what an experienced lawyer can do to win your case:
Investigate the DWI incident
Collect evidence and build a solid defense
Use evidence to challenge the prosecutor’s argument, undermine the arresting officer’s testimony, and challenge the results of your sobriety test
Work with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal
Fight your charges in court
Guide you through the legal process with compassion
Meet With a Skilled New York DWI Defense Attorney for Free
Unfortunately, there’s only so much you can do to stay safe on the roads on Blackout Wednesday. If you choose to drink and drive on the day before Thanksgiving or any other day of the year, you could face DWI charges. The good news is that a defense attorney can protect your rights during the most severe outcome.
Since most DWI defense attorneys in New York offer free consultations, you won’t have to make any financial commitments to learn more about your legal options and the penalties you’re facing. There’s no risk in talking to a lawyer, so reach out to a legal representative today and find out how they can help you avoid a serious conviction.
