The holiday season is all about celebrating and spending time with loved ones, but let’s be honest—many of these festivities include alcohol and, sometimes, drugs. Unfortunately, this combination can lead to an increase in DUI and drug-related arrests during this time of year and it is important to have an experienced drug crime defense attorney in MS. If you’re planning to hit some holiday parties, it’s important to stay mindful of the risks and take steps to protect yourself.
As your trusted legal team, The Law Firm of Tangi Carter & Associates P.A., we have put together this guide to help you enjoy the season safely and responsibly. Whether it’s understanding the law or knowing how to avoid legal trouble, we’re here to help you stay informed and make smart choices during the holidays.
Understanding DUI Laws in Mississippi
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious issue here in Mississippi, and the consequences can be life-changing. Under Mississippi Code § 63-11-30, it’s against the law to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For anyone under 21, even a small amount of alcohol in your system can lead to a DUI charge. And keep in mind, even if your BAC is under the legal limit, you can still be arrested if your driving shows signs of being impaired by alcohol or drugs.
The penalties for a DUI in Mississippi aren’t something to take lightly. You could face fines, time in jail, losing your driver’s license, and even having to install an ignition interlock device in your car. For repeat offenses or accidents that cause injuries or worse, the consequences only get tougher. Staying informed and making responsible choices can make all the difference.
Common Drugs and Their Impact on Driving
You might not realize it, but even everyday medications can impair your driving. Let’s break it down:
- Marijuana: Slows reaction time, affects coordination, and makes judging distances harder—all things that are crucial for driving safely. Even if you’re using marijuana legally, you can still face a DUI charge if it impairs your driving.
- Prescription medications: These medications can cause drowsiness, confusion, and dizziness, which make it dangerous to get behind the wheel. Even with a prescription, the law doesn’t make exceptions for impaired driving.
- Stimulants (Prescription or Illegal):Drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine can cause reckless, aggressive behavior, while prescription stimulants like Adderall, when misused, can lead to overconfidence and erratic driving.
Mississippi criminal law firms often handle cases involving driving under the influence of drugs. If you are facing such charges, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible.
Tips for Avoiding DUI and Drug Charges This Holiday Season
Here are some essential tips to help you avoid DUI and drug charges this holiday season:
1. Plan Ahead:
- Designated driver: If you plan on consuming alcohol or drugs and you’re heading out with a group, pick someone you trust to stay sober and be your ride. This person should remain completely sober throughout the evening and be responsible for driving everyone home safely.
- Use a Ride-Sharing App: Uber and Lyft are lifesavers. Save their app on your phone and budget for a ride home—it’s way cheaper than a DUI fine.
- Stay overnight: If the party is at a friend’s or family member’s house, ask if you can stay overnight to avoid driving under the influence.
2. Be Mindful of Your Consumption:
- Pace yourself: There’s no rush to finish that drink. Sip, enjoy, and alternate with water or soda. Staying hydrated can make a huge difference.
- Eat before and during the party:Holiday snacks aren’t just delicious—they also help slow alcohol absorption. Load up on those appetizers!
- Avoid mixing substances: Mixing alcohol with other drugs, even prescription medications, can have unpredictable and dangerous effects.
- Know your limits: Everyone’s tolerance is different. Be honest with yourself and cut back if you’re starting to feel buzzed.
3. Be Aware of the Risks:
- Holiday Checkpoints Are Everywhere: Law enforcement knows this is a high-risk time of year. DUI checkpoints and patrols will be out in full force, especially late at night.
- Impairment Happens Fast: Reaction time, judgment, and coordination can all be affected by even a small amount of alcohol or drugs. Don’t gamble with your safety..
- When in Doubt, Don’t Drive: If you’re questioning whether you’re okay to drive, the answer is probably no. Call a ride or ask someone for help.
4. If You Are Stopped by Law Enforcement:
- Be polite and cooperative: Keep your hands visible, stay calm, and be polite. Being cooperative can make a big difference.
- Know your rights: In Mississippi, you can decline field sobriety tests, but refusing a breathalyzer can result in an automatic license suspension. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask for clarification.
- Contact an attorney: If you’re arrested, don’t panic. Contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible—they’ll help guide you through what to do next.
Statistics on DUI and Drug-Related Arrests During the Holidays
With the holiday season it is common to see an increase in DUI and drug-related arrests. Here are some statistics to illustrate the problem:
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 13,384 traffic fatalities nationwide in December 2020, with 28% of those fatalities involving a drunk driver.
- The Mississippi Department of Transportation reported 670 traffic fatalities in 2020, with alcohol involved in 27% of those fatalities.
- A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that during the Christmas and New Year’s period, the number of crash fatalities involving impaired drivers increased by 14%.
These statistics highlight the importance of responsible behavior during the holiday season. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for yourself and others.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation
If you are facing DUI or drug charges in Mississippi, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced drug crime defense attorney, MS. Here is how The Law Firm of Tangi Carter & Associates P.A can help you.
1. Challenging the Evidence
We dive deep into every detail of your case. Did law enforcement conduct the traffic stop properly? Were the tests administered correctly? If something’s off, we’ll fight to have the evidence thrown out.
2. Protecting Your Rights
You have rights, and we’re here to make sure they’re respected. If your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation, we’ll use that to strengthen your case.
3. Exploring Alternative Options
Sometimes the best outcome isn’t a trial. We can work to negotiate plea deals or alternative sentencing, like drug treatment programs, to help you avoid jail time and minimize the impact on your life.
4. Building a Strong Defense
Every case is unique, and so is our approach. Whether it’s arguing for a reduced sentence or going to court to fight for your innocence, we’re in your corner every step of the way.
Here’s the truth: a DUI charge doesn’t mean your life is over. At The Law Firm of Tangi Carter & Associates P.A, we’ve helped people just like you get their lives back on track after a DUI/DUID charge. We’re not just here to represent you—we’re here to support you. We know the stress and uncertainty you’re feeling, and we’re ready to help you navigate this challenging time with confidence and care.
If you have been arrested for DUI or drug offenses in Mississippi, don’t hesitate to contact The Law Firm of Tangi Carter & Associates P.A. at 601-544-1313 or admin5@tangicarterlaw.com. We offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to assist you.