According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Christmas holiday results in approximately 45 alcohol related traffic fatalities. This number increases to 54 alcohol-related fatalities over the New Year’s holiday. The United States National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that 40 percent of traffic deaths during Christmas and New Years are caused by drivers who have consumed alcohol.
These holiday statistics may seem boring, but if you or a family member are accused of DUI over the New Year’s holiday, there are three steps you must take, including:
- Take Notes Regarding the Scene: In the early stages of your case, it can be difficult to predict which fact will ultimately assist you in developing a defense with your New Jersey DUI lawyer. It is important to take as many detailed notes as you can regarding the scene and the events immediately prior to your interaction with the local authorities, including:
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Activities that occurred 24 hours prior to your arrest, including where you went and what alcohol and food you ingested
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Recall when you last slept and for how long in the 24 hours immediately prior to your arrest
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The names and amounts of any prescription medications that you took
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The names of any witnesses
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The time of day you were pulled over or approached by the police
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What officers said to you both inside and outside of the police station or jail
- Contact an Experienced DUI Attorney: As soon as you post bond and are released from jail, it is important to speak to a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. People begin to forget specific details shortly after an event ends. You want to speak to your attorney as soon possible while your memory is fresh and you are able to discuss all of the details that may assist with your defense.
- Attend all Scheduled Court Appearances: In the state of New Jersey, a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent or higher can result in a DUI traffic offense with serious consequences including jail, fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. If you are arrested or charged with a DUI traffic offense, you must attend any and all court appearances with your attorney. Use a calendar, put the dates into your smartphone or take any other steps that you need to remind yourself of these critical dates and times.
Contact HCK Today
The team of DUI lawyers at Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. have experience with DUI traffic offenses and the strategies necessary to develop your best defense. Just as you would not select a podiatrist to assist you with a heart condition, if you have been arrested or charged with DUI in New Jersey, you need a lawyer who is familiar with the New Jersey court system, understands the complex administration process surrounding the state’s attempt to suspend your driver’s license and can work toward a favorable resolution on your behalf if appropriate for your specific case. Contact our attorneys today to review the events surrounding your DUI arrest.
