Thanksgiving Is A Terrible Time For A OWI (DUI / DWI)

Thanksgiving is a Terrible Time for an OWI Many people’s celebrations include turkey and a few alcoholic drinks. The traditions of drinking on Thanksgiving actually begin the day before Thanksgiving, which is the biggest bar night of the year. Before you head out to celebrate, consider a few reasons why an OWI can ruin your plans.

Thanksgiving Weekend OWI

The week of the Thanksgiving holiday not only has an increase in the occurrence of OWIs, but also injuries related to accidents that involve drinking. The highest rate of OWIs occurs from the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s weekend. Black Wednesday, which is the night before Thanksgiving, is the highest rate of OWIs. Beer sales on this night double, and with an increase in traffic on the road, it’s can be a dangerous mix.

Why You May Want To Reconsider Alcohol

There are many reasons why you may want to reconsider your Thanksgiving weekend plans, including needing to operate a motor vehicle

You Could Be Met With Strict Consequences

The consequences of an OWI in Wisconsin can be strict. Your first offense OWI in Wisconsin is a civil offense and can bring penalties such as the following:

• Driver’s license suspension (six to nine months)
• A fine between $150 and $300
• An additional $435 OWI surcharge
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) or 24/7 sobriety program requirements if over a certain BAC level
• Mandatory alcohol and/or other drug assessment
• Higher insurance rates and SR22 verification
• In addition to the penalties listed above, you’ll likely need to pay additional fees that add up to $240 when you apply for an occupational license.

Many penalties increase significantly for those who were pulled over with a minor under the age of 16 in the car. Penalties can also increase from excessive BAC and OWI causing injury, great bodily harm, or vehicular homicide.

A 2nd conviction can lead to jail time, a loss of driving privileges, and expensive fines. If you have priors, you can expect even more severe consequences.

You May Injure Someone

Alcohol reduces your reaction time. This increases the chances that you may cause an accident. Auto accidents that involve alcohol tend to lead to more injuries. Not only would you have to deal with the guilt that comes with injuring someone, but you could also be responsible for their medical costs too.

An OWI Can Follow You Throughout Life

Even once you have dealt with the OWI in court, the charges can continue to follow you throughout life. You may be required to install an ignition interlock device into your vehicle. Your insurance rates are likely to increase and may stay that way for a few years. An OWI can even affect your employment opportunities.

You May Miss All Your Holiday Celebrations

If you’re arrested for an OWI, you may have to wait until the following Monday to see a judge for your arraignment. The courthouses are usually closed for the holidays, which means if you’re arrested on Wednesday night, you may miss all of your holiday celebrations and plans while you wait to visit with the judge.

Avoid A OWI This Thanksgiving

Taking steps to avoid an OWI doesn’t mean that you have to skip your Thanksgiving day celebration. Here are a few tips to help you avoid an OWI this year:

• Consider alternative transportation: Choose a designated driver or rely on rideshare apps to get around if you plan on drinking.
• Know your limit: Know your drinking limit, and avoid driving if you go over that limit. Keep in mind that how much you eat, or whether you’re taking any medications, can also affect your BAC level.
• Consider walking: If you live near bars or clubs, you may be able to walk to your celebrations and avoid getting behind the wheel altogether.
• Stay home: You can host your family and friends over for a safe and responsible celebration. Encourage anyone who is drinking to avoid driving.

With these tips, you can have a fun Thanksgiving without the potential consequences. Don’t let a mistake ruin the rest of your life.

Contact an Experienced Racine OWI Defense Attorney About Your Drunk Driving Charges in Wisconsin

Have you been charged with an OWI offense in Wisconsin? A drunk driving conviction could leave you with a permanent record and could result in your driver’s license being suspended for a very long time or worse.  That is why it is imperative that you speak with a qualified OWI defense lawyer about your case. The lawyers at Cafferty & Scheidegger represent clients charged with drunk driving, breath test refusal, and related offenses in Racine, Kenosha and Walworth Counties and throughout South East Wisconsin. Call 262-632-5000 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule a free consultation about your case.

Our office is located at 840 Lake Ave, Racine, WI 53403