The Fourth of July, Summer time and a day off work is the perfect trifecta to entice people to drink too much alcohol at parties all over America.  Unfortunately, many people then get behind the wheel and go see the fireworks at dark, and then maybe hit another party before the night is over.  Mistakes happen; people think they are OK to drive, law enforcement is out looking for impaired drivers especially on holidays, and blood alcohol levels will mean something different on each person.  Your best discrimination needs to be used before you drive. Alcohol does not affect men and women equally. The weight of the person affects the percentage of alcohol in the blood.  Food in the stomach does not absorb alcohol, but it might slow the rate at which alcohol is absorbed.  The best criminal defense attorney will be able to sort all this out if you mistakenly take any testing when you are pulled over.

Also, excess in alcohol can lead to bad judgment when playing with fireworks.  In Ohio, only “novelty an trick” fireworks like party poppers and glow worms can be used by unlicensed people.  Absolutely no roman candles, bottle rockets or other fireworks classified at “consumer fireworks”.  Any first time offender in Ohio caught setting off any of the illegal type may be charged with a first degree misdemeanor.  The sentence if found guilty can be up to six months in jail and fined $1,000.

The Bottom Line:  Being in the sun all day, drinking, “living it up” and then getting behind the wheel, on the Fourth of July when Law Enforcement is particularly on the lookout is not wise. Absolutely celebrate, but be sure to have a designated driver on hand.  If you have only had a couple of drinks, you feel sober; your BAC level could STILL get you a DUI.  Never take any tests if you are pulled over; and never answer any questions.  Put my number in your cell phone and contact me before you do anything else:  513-260-2099