Driving under the influence (DUI) infractions occur all day, every day and all throughout the year. However, arrests for impaired driving do surge upward during certain times of the year. Near the holidays, for example, drunk driving crash rates increase. Many police departments ramp up enforcement activity immediately before and after the biggest federal holidays.
They may also have more patrols scheduled and be more assertive about identifying impaired motorists during certain community events. If there is a major concert or sporting event, the local police department may schedule more officers to be out in patrol vehicles after the end of the event to look for impaired drivers.
With the beginning of the high school, college and professional football season, there may be many people traveling to enjoy games or to tailgate before a team plays. Those attending football games or going to watch parties may need to have plans in place to protect themselves from the possibility of DUI charges.
Football and alcohol go hand in hand
Many people drink heavily when watching football games in a social setting. Some people bring entire cases of beer while tailgating before a game. Others may down shots with friends while watching a game on television. The association between football and drinking is relatively strong.
Therefore, local police departments are often on high alert when there are big games in the area. People either need to monitor what they drink, make plans to stay the night or secure alternate transportation after big games.
During football season, there may be an elevated risk for DUI enforcement. Even sober people could end up arrested by police officers who attribute any mistakes while driving to chemical intoxication. Some police departments may even establish DUI checkpoints or sobriety roadblocks that could lead to dozens of people getting arrested.
Officers expecting to encounter drunk drivers may suffer from a confirmation bias. They may attribute innocent behavior to alcohol impairment and could arrest people who are not actually driving while drunk.
Anyone arrested on DUI charges may need help evaluating their situation so they can respond effectively. Defending against charges initiated during times of heightened enforcement, such as after football games, may require the development of a unique defense strategy. Those who seek out the right support can potentially avoid the complications traditionally associated with DUI charges.