Increased DUI Enforcement in DeKalb County in December

Around any major holiday, Georgia law enforcement steps up their game when it comes to hunting for those driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. In fact, the number of arrests and prosecutions rises dramatically during and immediately after a major holiday as a result of increased enforcement.

If you or someone you care for has been arrested for DUI in Georgia, an experienced DeKalb County DUI attorney can defend your case to protect your constitutional rights.

Increased Christmas Enforcement

What better way to celebrate Christmas gift than a DUI charge? The Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety is partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to bring increased DUI enforcement to the state of Georgia this holiday season.

In 2017 during the Christmas season, 15 total traffic deaths occurred between December 22 at 6 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. on December 26. Over 515 traffic crashes were investigated, with 129 resulting in injuries. One hundred ninety-two people were arrested for driving under the influence, and over 7,000 citations were issued during that time.

Common Causes of DUI in Georgia

Some common situations around the holidays can cause you big legal trouble down the road if you are not careful.

Christmas Parties

Whether it is your office Christmas party or one happening at a friend's house, you may choose to drink while celebrating the holidays. If you become intoxicated and get behind the wheel, your life could change forever. Take caution and plan appropriately if you choose to drink.

Beware the Holiday Eggnog

Whether it is eggnog or the mystery holiday punch being served at the party, make sure to find out what is in it. Is there alcohol? If so, what kind? How much? Does a certain kind of alcohol make you more intoxicated than others?

Sometimes people will spike eggnog that should not be alcoholic, so pay attention to how you feel before you drive home.

DUI Checkpoints

Around the holidays and as part of the increased enforcement, Georgia law enforcement will organize and implement DUI checkpoints throughout the state. DUI checkpoints happen at random places on Georgia roads and highways, where each car is stopped to look for signs of intoxicated drivers, including

• the smell of alcohol,
• bloodshot eyes,
• slurred speech,
• lack of motor skill coordination, or
• inability to concentrate.

There are ways to challenge the validity of a DUI checkpoint, so if you are arrested as a result of a DUI checkpoint, make sure to contact an experienced attorney to defend your case.

Watch Out for Alcohol Candies

This one may sound a little bit ridiculous, but it can actually result in a DUI in extreme cases. Certain candies contain alcohol, such as a rum ball. They are often delicious but can make your breath smell like alcohol.

They rarely cause actual intoxication (unless you eat a lot), but it may cause an officer to think you have been drinking heavily even when you have not.

Consult a DeKalb County DUI Attorney

Around the holidays the police are on the lookout for intoxicated drivers. An experienced DeKalb County DUI attorney can defend your case and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.