How to Avoid an OWI this Holiday Season - and What to Do if You are Arrested

With the holidays nearly here, many of us are gearing up for a few weeks of family, friends, holiday parties - and perhaps more alcohol than usual. For many, drinking is a natural part of the holiday season, whether it’s a glass of wine at the office party after work or a mug of eggnog with the family.

The reality is that all of this booze makes it more likely for many of us to get behind the wheel when we shouldn't - and increases our risk of being arrested and charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI). Here are some of the ways that you can avoid getting an OWI this holiday season.

Don't Drink When You Might Drive

While it may seem obvious, the most effective way to eliminate your risk of getting an OWI is simply not to drink if you have your car with you. While you may have the best intentions, the fact is that alcohol clouds our judgment, and driving may not seem like that big of a deal after a couple of cocktails.

Use a Rideshare Service

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made it easier than ever to get from place to place. If you are planning on drinking, take a rideshare to and from the place you are going. It’s well worth the extra few dollars you may spend when you consider that a first-time OWI can cost you several thousand.

Have a Designated Driver

If you are going to an event where you will be drinking with a group, designate a driver who will stay sober. In the event that your driver does end up drinking, call a cab or a rideshare to get all of you home legally and safely.

What to Do if You Do Get Arrested for OWI?

Sometimes, people make mistakes. If you are arrested for OWI this holiday season, the first thing you should do is contact an experienced attorney at Cohen Law Offices. In many instances, there are defenses available that may allow you to avoid a conviction or at least mitigate the consequences you are facing. The last thing you should ever do is simply plead guilty to an OWI charge without exploring your legal options. Doing so may result in significant short and long-term consequences that can affect nearly every aspect of your life.

Some of the defenses that may be available in your case include the following:

●     Challenging the reason for the initial stop

●     Arguing that any testing the officer conducted was flawed

●     Introducing evidence that the signs of intoxication the officer observed were actually caused by a medical condition

The best way to determine if any of these or other defenses apply is to meet with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Call Cohen Law Offices Today to Protect Your Rights

If you have been arrested for OWI in the Eau Claire area, you should speak to an attorney as soon as you can. At Cohen Law Offices, we know how to protect the rights of the accused and will work tirelessly to resolve your matter as favorably as possible. To schedule a free case evaluation, call our office today at 715-514-5051 or contact us online.