Bars and homes are packed around the country today for the Super Bowl. Parties are going on and media analysts have predicted the biggest and best viewing audience ever. Law enforcement is out and are expecting to pick up drunk drivers tonight. Every year, DWI arrests increase on Super Bowl Sunday and is often one of the deadliest days of the year in terms of DUI / DWI accidents, with 43 percent of all fatal accidents on that day caused by alcohol consumption. Of course, I always say not to drink and drive.  Have a designated driver on hand.  But, inevitably, there are many who feel they can get behind the wheel and drive properly, but will be pulled over for a traffic infraction and the next thing they know, are being questioned, breathalyzed and even arrested.

If you are drinking, be sure to practice moderation if you are going to drive.  The average person metabolizes alcohol at the rate of one drink (12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of liquor) per hour.  These numbers change rapidly with a person’s body weight and other factors.  Each person is different.  Many people are completely fine having just one beer in four hours, but four beers in four hours can cause havoc.

The Bottom Line: Line up a designated driver, now.  If you are pulled over, remember you have the right to remain silent. You have the right to speak with the best criminal defense attorney before answering any questions or doing any tests that law enforcement may ask you to do. If you are in this situation, politely tell the officer that you won’t be answering questions or performing any tests until after you speak with your lawyer; then call me; 513-260-2099