No matter what or when you celebrate, the holiday season is a time for joyously gathering with family and friends. It also just so happens to be one of the most dangerous times for drinking and driving incidents throughout Missouri.
With holiday gatherings often accompanied by copious amounts of alcohol, understanding the consequences of DWI/DUI in St. Louis and across Missouri is crucial to keeping yourself and others safe. The Combs Waterkotte criminal defense law firm wants to help you avoid a situation that could cause serious injury, death, or a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been charged, call our expert DWI/DUI attorneys as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a confidential consultation.
Plan on Drinking Over the Holidays? Here’s What You Need to Know About Drinking and Driving in St. Louis and Throughout Missouri
In Missouri, DWI/DUI charges can occur when:
- A driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher (.04% for commercial drivers).
- A driver shows impaired ability to operate a vehicle safely due to alcohol or drugs, even if their BAC is below the legal limit.
- Drivers under 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, meaning any detectable BAC above .02% can lead to penalties.
Holiday DWI/DUI Enforcement in St. Louis and Throughout Missouri
During the holidays, law enforcement agencies ramp up efforts to prevent drinking and driving. Initiatives like “Impaired Driving Ends Here” or “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” increase sobriety checkpoints, patrols, and awareness campaigns.
Expect more police presence on roadways throughout Missouri, especially during New Year’s Eve.
Penalties for DWI/DUI in St. Louis and Throughout Missouri
DWI/DUI across Missouri carries serious consequences, including:
- First Offense
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- 90-day license suspension
- Possible installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Second Offense
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $2,000
- 1-year license revocation
- Mandatory IID installation
- Third and Subsequent Offenses
- Class D or Class E felony charges
- Significant prison time
- Permanent driver’s license revocation
Along with the severe criminal penalties, a DWI/DUI conviction can lead to higher insurance rates (SR-22), difficulties gaining employment, housing, and loans, as well as lasting damage to your reputation.
Avoiding a Holiday DWI/DUI in St. Louis and Throughout Missouri
A few tips to avoiding a DWI/DUI charge during the holiday from the Combs Waterkotte defense attorneys:
- 1. Plan Ahead
Designate a sober driver or arrange for a rideshare service before attending any holiday event where alcohol is served. - 2. Know Your Limits
Even small amounts of alcohol pack a punch and can impair judgment. Use tools like personal breathalyzers or apps to track your BAC. - 3. Stay the Night
If possible, stay overnight at your holiday celebration to avoid driving after drinking. - 4. Take Advantage of Safe Ride Programs
Some cities in Missouri offer free or discounted rides during the holidays.
What to Do If You’re Pulled Over in St. Louis or Anywhere Else in Missouri
If you’re stopped by law enforcement under suspicion of DWI/DUI:
- Be polite and cooperative.
- Remember your rights: You aren’t required to answer potentially incriminating questions like, “How much have you had to drink?”
- Refuse any field sobriety test or chemical test (breath or blood).
- Call a Combs Waterkotte DWI/DUI defense attorney immediately at (314) 900-HELP. We are available 24/7, even during the holidays.
How the Combs Waterkotte DWI/DUI Defense Attorneys Can Help in St. Louis and Throughout Missouri
If you’re charged with DWI/DUI during the holidays, contact the Combs Waterkotte expert defense attorneys right away. Our skilled DWI/DUI lawyer can:
- Challenge the validity of the stop and test results.
- Help protect your driving privileges.
- Negotiate reduced penalties or alternative sentencing, such as alcohol education programs.
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Stay Safe and Enjoy the Holidays | Combs Waterkotte
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and celebration – not legal troubles or tragic accidents. By planning ahead, making responsible choices, and understanding Missouri’s laws, you can enjoy the season while keeping yourself and others safe on the roads.
If you or a loved one are facing DWI/DUI charges in St. Louis or elsewhere in Missouri, contact Combs Waterkotte right away by calling (314) 900-HELP or reaching out online for a free case review.
