Don’t let your summer fun be ruined by a drunk driving charge

While never driving after consuming alcohol is sage advice, many who choose to drink occasionally may find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Drunk driving is commonplace in Virginia and all states nationwide, particularly during the summer months.

Nationally, more than one million arrests involve DUI. With the legal limit at 0.08 percent in Virginia, even drivers who are slightly below that number may find themselves in trouble.

When does drunk driving often occur?

Traffic crash data reveals that drunk driving most commonly occurs between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Law enforcement is well aware of those statistics and is on the lookout for signs of impaired operation of cars, trucks and motorcycles. They also possess insight into certain “hot spots” throughout that state that are more likely to have drunk drivers on the road.

DUI checkpoint options

Virginia Beach is a common target by law enforcement. With Labor Day just around the corner, residents and tourists celebrating throughout the three-day weekend will likely see police out in force. In addition to traffic stops, sobriety checkpoints and roadblocks will also be in place where law enforcement officials can legally request licenses and registrations. However, their authority to stop and search drivers has limitations.

The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution asserts protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. Additionally, approaching a checkpoint does not mean that the driver has to continue into it. Driving away is an option without breaking any laws. However, a U-turn, crossing double yellow road lines, and cutting off another driver may get the attention of the police.

An arrest for drunk driving is life-changing, mandating help from a skilled and experienced DUI attorney.