If you were pulled over for a DUI during this holiday season, you definitely were not the only one. It is a well-documented fact that DUI arrests spike during the holidays, and it does not take a genius to figure out why. With people taking time off work, more cars are on the road. Many are driving long distances to be with family members, while some are engaging in some last-minute, frantic holiday shopping. Still, others are enjoying beautiful feasts during this period and perhaps a few too many drinks. And although it might be a rarity, snow and ice are not unheard of in Southern California during the winter – especially at higher altitudes. Throw poor weather into the mix, and you have the perfect recipe for plenty of DUIs. The real question is whether you can avoid consequences for criminal charges.
The Highest Number of DUIs is Usually Recorded on Thanksgiving Weekend
According to some studies, Thanksgiving Weekend is actually the “most dangerous time to be on the road.” For whatever reason, data indicates that this period of time is actually slightly more dangerous compared to Christmas or even New Year’s Eve. On Thanksgiving weekend, more drunk drivers take to the road than on any other weekend throughout the year. On November 28, 2022, the California Highway Patrol reported that over 1,000 people were arrested on DUI charges during this weekend alone. However, the number of fatal crashes decreased that year, with four compared to 14 in 2021. In Bakersfield, a total of 25 motorists were arrested for DUIs during the weekend. 44 DUI arrests were made in San Diego County, but no fatalities were recorded.
High Number of DUIs During Christmas Season – As Expected
Even though Thanksgiving might take the top spot when it comes to DUIs and general danger on the road, the Christmas season is certainly not far behind. However, San Diego County once again recorded a notable reduction in fatalities, with the District Attorney’s office reporting that 29 had been killed by DUI crashes during the entirety of 2022. In the previous year, that number was 39. In addition, DUI arrests were down in 2022 from 6,034 to 5,408.
But there were still plenty of tragedies throughout California during the Christmas season. On Boxing Day of 2022, it was reported that a DUI crash in Yuba City had injured a teen while killing a 44-year-old. Weather conditions were said to be foggy on Christmas night in Yuba City, but police also stated that intoxication may have been a contributing factor. Before the Christmas holiday, the LAPD faced its own DUI controversy after a total of seven officers were arrested for driving while intoxicated. Of these seven officers, many were over twice the legal limit – and many of the crashes resulted in injuries.
Before Christmas even began, a December 22 report noted that a man from Chino was facing charges of murder and two felony counts of DUI causing injuries. He had caused a three-vehicle crash that caused two injuries and one death.
On December 27, a man from El Cajon faced serious charges after causing a fatal crash in Lemon Grove. Not only did he cause the crash, but he also fled from the scene without waiting for first responders to arrive. His bail was set at $1 million, and he faces charges of DUI, gross vehicular manslaughter, and hit-and-run resulting in death. Also on December 27, the Highway Patrol reported that they had arrested 11 motorists for DUIs in Bakersfield alone during the Christmas weekend. Fortunately, none of these incidents involved fatalities.
On December 28, it was reported that a man had been charged with sparking an eight-car crash while driving under the influence. In Anaheim. He was allegedly high on drugs when he drove through a red light at high speed, smashing into a vehicle and killing the driver. In total, nine people were injured. The defendant was charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of a drug-causing injury – two felonies.
Where Can I Find a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles?
If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, look no further than the Kosnett Law Firm. With our assistance, you can strive for the best possible results with a solid defense strategy. While many people find themselves facing DUI charges during the holiday season, not all of these individuals necessarily need to accept the full brunt of the law. You may have the opportunity to have your charges dismissed if you can prove that the traffic stop was unconstitutional or if you can show that the arresting officer made some kind of error with the breathalyzer device. There are many other possibilities, so get in touch with us today to discuss your legal options. Contact our DUI defense attorney in Los Angeles for more legal assistance.
