As the 4th of July approaches, many South Carolinians are gearing up for a day of barbecues, fireworks, and patriotic celebrations. However, amidst all the excitement of the holiday, Spartanburg DUI lawyers know that drivers must be prepared for Independence Day DUI checkpoints.
July 4th is consistently ranked as the deadliest day on American roadways by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). To combat this trend, law enforcement agencies throughout South Carolina will be conducting DUI checkpoints over the holiday.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what to expect from these checkpoints and how to protect yourself if you’re pulled over. And if you do find yourself facing DUI charges in Spartanburg, SC, contact the Bateman Law Firm right away.
The 4th of July Is One of the Deadliest Days on the Road According to NHTSA
According to the NHTSA, Independence Day is not only one of the busiest days on our nation’s highways, but it’s also one of the deadliest. In fact, between 2015 and 2019 alone, an average of 601 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents over the July Fourth holiday period. This sobering statistic highlights just how dangerous it can be to drive during this time.
Several factors contribute to this increased risk on our roads during July 4th celebrations. For starters, many people drink more alcohol than usual over the holiday weekend. Additionally, there tends to be a higher volume of traffic as folks travel from place to place for family gatherings and other festivities.
All too often, as any Spartanburg DUI lawyer knows, these factors combine with reckless driving behaviors such as speeding or distracted driving – leading to tragic consequences for those involved in accidents. That’s why law enforcement agencies across South Carolina take DUI checkpoints so seriously during this time of year.
Remember That You Have to Stop and Submit to a Breathalyzer Test
It’s important to remember that if you’re stopped at an Independence Day DUI checkpoint in South Carolina, you have to stop and submit to a breathalyzer test. Refusing the test can result in serious consequences such as automatic suspension of your driver’s license.
The police are allowed by law to conduct these tests without a warrant, so trying to resist or avoid them is not advisable. Once they suspect you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they have enough probable cause to require a breathalyzer test.
Furthermore, even if you pass the breathalyzer test with flying colors, it doesn’t mean that you won’t be arrested for driving under the influence. The police officer may still subjectively determine whether they believe you’re intoxicated based on other factors such as slurred speech or bloodshot eyes.
Ultimately, submitting to a breathalyzer test is just one aspect of dealing with a July 4th DUI checkpoint. If you find yourself facing charges related to drunk driving during this holiday season, make sure that you contact an experienced Spartanburg DUI lawyer who can help prepare your defense and protect your legal rights.
The Police Will Not Be More Lenient Because It Is a Public Holiday
It’s easy to assume that law enforcement officers might be more lenient during public holidays like Independence Day. After all, it’s a time for celebration and relaxation. Unfortunately, this is not the case when it comes to DUI checkpoints.
Police officers are trained to enforce the law regardless of the date or occasion. They understand that drunk driving can cause serious harm to individuals and their families. With this in mind, they will take every measure necessary to ensure road safety.
This means that if you come across a DUI checkpoint on July 4th, you should expect the same level of scrutiny as any other day of the year. The police have no reason to be more forgiving just because it’s a holiday.
When stopped at a checkpoint, always remember your rights but also cooperate with law enforcement officials by providing identification documents and submitting yourself for alcohol testing if requested.
Do Not Try to Avoid Independence Day DUI Checkpoints
Independence Day DUI checkpoints are meant to keep everyone safe on the roads. However, some people may try to avoid them, thinking they can get away with driving under the influence. This is never a good idea and could result in serious consequences.
Firstly, trying to avoid a DUI checkpoint will only raise suspicion from law enforcement officers. They have been trained to detect when someone is trying to evade them and will be more likely to pull you over for further investigation.
Secondly, avoiding these checkpoints also means that you are breaking the law by obstructing an officer’s duty. In South Carolina, it is illegal to intentionally bypass or ignore a police checkpoint.
Even if you do manage to avoid getting caught at a checkpoint, this does not mean that you won’t get arrested for a DUI later on down the road. Police officers are always on high alert during holidays like Independence Day and will be looking out for any signs of impaired driving.
If You Are Arrested, Do Not Make Statements Without a Lawyer Present
If you find yourself arrested at a July 4th DUI checkpoint, it’s essential to remember that anything you say can be used against you in court. Therefore, it is crucial not to make statements without a lawyer present.
The police may try and pressure you into making a statement or confessing guilt. Understand that they are not there to help you. They are gathering evidence against you. That means anything said can potentially harm your case.
It’s important to exercise your right to remain silent until legal representation arrives. You have the right under the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment not to incriminate yourself and should always utilize this right.
When a lawyer is present during questioning by law enforcement officers, they will protect your rights and ensure no violations occur during interrogation. The attorney will advise on what answers to give or avoid giving based on the nature of the questions posed by investigators.
Remember: if arrested for DUI this Fourth of July season or any other time, do not speak with authorities before consulting with an experienced Spartanburg DUI lawyer who can represent your interests throughout proceedings.
Let an Experienced Spartanburg DUI Lawyer Prepare Your Defense!
Independence Day is a time for celebration and enjoyment with friends and family. However, drinking and driving can have serious consequences for yourself and for others on the road.
If you are charged with DUI th, do not hesitate to seek legal representation. A skilled Spartanburg DUI lawyer can help prepare your defense and work towards a favorable outcome for your case.
So get in touch with The Bateman Law Firm and schedule a free case evaluation as soon as possible after being charged with DUI on the 4th of July. Contact us online or call 864-406-3004!