DUI Prevention Guide in St. Clairsville, Ohio

Welcome to St. Clairsville Criminal Law Group, where we are dedicated to upholding the basic civil rights of every citizen. Our mission is to ensure justice and protection for our clients. While we strongly condemn drunk driving, we understand that charges may not always be justified. If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge, there may be opportunities to have the charges dropped. Our experienced St. Clairsville Criminal Lawyers will work tirelessly to secure the justice you deserve.

In this DUI prevention guide compiled by our expert St. Clairsville Criminal Lawyer, you will find valuable information. We encourage you to take a look and consult our St. Clairsville OVI Lawyer promptly if you need assistance with a DUI case.

About Drunk Driving

Did you know that almost one-third of traffic accidents are caused by drunk driving? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 10,000 people lose their lives each year due to this preventable offense. Shockingly, one drunk driving crash occurs every 53 minutes, resulting in fatalities. The costs associated with DUI cases amount to $199 billion annually.

It is troubling to note that repeated offenders are responsible for one-third of drunk-driving incidents that lead to fatalities, injuries, and property damage. Furthermore, 50% to 75% of repeated offenders already have their licenses suspended.

Despite a decrease in DUI incidents since 1980, reported by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, there are still numerous cases each year. That is why we urge you to review the following guide for essential information.

Prevention Tips for Yourself

Driving under the influence not only endangers the lives of innocent pedestrians and motorists but also poses risks to your well-being. To avoid such incidents, consider the following prevention tips:

• When attending parties with friends, designate a sober driver who can safely transport everyone and ensure a safe return home.

• If you are planning to go to a party or a bar alone, opt for a cab. For multiple destinations, car rentals are available.

• In case you find yourself in a situation where you have consumed alcohol impulsively, leave your car where it is and arrange alternative transportation such as a cab, bus, or train to reach your home or hotel safely.

Thank you for considering this valuable information. At St. Clairsville Criminal Law Group, your safety and rights are our top priorities.

How to Know That You are Too Drunk

Determining if you’re drunk doesn’t require calculating your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). There are evident indicators of intoxication, such as:

• Flushed skin
• Profuse sweating
• Bloodshot and reddened eyes
• Blurred or double vision
• Loud or slurred speech
• Difficulty walking in a straight line
• Accidentally bumping into objects
• Difficulty signing your name normally

If you’re unsure about your level of intoxication, seek the opinion of a friend, bartender, or waiter. Remember, even if you don’t exhibit these signs, you might still be above the legal alcohol limit. If you face DUI charges, it’s crucial to consult a St. Clairsville OVI Lawyer immediately.

Use a BAC Calculator App

For a more accurate assessment of your condition, you can utilize a BAC calculator app. These apps allow you to create a profile with your height, weight, and age, providing real-time estimates of alcohol content in your system.

For Your Companions

Being responsible means staying sober while driving, not just for yourself, but also for your loved ones. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Volunteer to be the designated driver and ensure everyone gets home safely.

Host a safe party with non-alcoholic beverages like mocktails.

Provide transportation and accommodation for friends who are unable to drive after drinking.

Prevent Others From Driving Drunk

There may be instances where you offer to drive someone home while they are intoxicated, but they insist on driving themselves. Here’s how to handle such situations:

• Avoid confrontation and remain calm.
• Suggest alternative options like taking a cab.
• Remember that the person’s judgment is impaired, so speak slowly and clearly.
• Express your concern for their safety and well-being.
• Offer them a place to crash for the night.
• Ask another friend to reason with the intoxicated person.
• If all else fails, contact law enforcement.

If your friend is charged with DUI, provide them with the contact information of our trusted St. Clairsville Criminal Lawyer.

How to Spot a Drunk Driver

Ensuring your safety on the road also requires being alert to other drivers. Watch out for the following indications:

• Erratic and zigzagging movements
• Abrupt illegal turns
• Tailgating, swerving, and rapid acceleration
• Unexplained stops
• Driving outside designated lanes
• Close calls with objects
• Inconsistent use of turn signals
• Slow or no response to traffic signals
• Driving without headlights at night
• Driving on the wrong side of the road

What You Should Do When You Spot a Drunk Driver

According to a St. Clairsville Criminal Lawyer, taking quick action is crucial for everyone’s safety when encountering an impaired driver.

• Keep a significant distance from the vehicle
• Avoid attempting to communicate with the impaired driver, as they may not comprehend
• If possible, note the license plate, color, and model of the car
• Safely pull over and immediately call 911 to provide essential details

Our St. Clairsville OVI Lawyer at the St. Clairsville Criminal Law Group is here to listen to your case and provide the necessary legal guidance regarding DUI charges. Contact us today for a comprehensive discussion.

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