People all over the nation will soon be heading out to their Thanksgiving destinations. Whether by planes, trains or automobiles, Americans will be on the move.
That influx of traffic is part of what makes the rate of DWI charges rise on Thanksgiving Eve. Known also as “Blackout Wednesday” and “Drinksgiving,” this day ranks high on the list of alcohol-infused holidays.
Why is everybody drinking?
You can blame some of it on the typical holiday stressors — traveling with children, in-laws — but there’s another significant component.
That homing instinct people have when near their ancestral watering hole. Young adults home from college head to the hometown bar, siblings dip out for a nip and wind up needing a nap before driving home.
A chance to blow off some steam
Before the holiday itself, which can be stultifyingly dull for some families, Drinksgiving lets celebrants have a last hurrah before a sober holiday with the folks.
There’s nothing wrong with that if you have a safe and sober ride home. But North Carolina does not play when it comes to getting arrested for driving while impaired (DWI). Those who drink and drive can get caught up in DWI traffic stops.
You don’t have to be drinking alcohol
Suspected impairment by marijuana or other drugs can also result in charges of DWI, even if the driver’s blood alcohol level (BAC) is 0.0%. Even those who become impaired while using legal over-the-counter drugs can be arrested if they are too impaired to drive.
Facing DWI charges?
For those who have already been arrested on DWI charges, there is still hope of avoiding a conviction. Learn more about the defense strategies you can employ.