Drive Hammered, Get Nailed Campaign

Holidays are a time for Christmas parties, visiting with family and friends, and holiday office parties. Its also a time when people get on the road after too much to drink. From Thanksgiving until January 2, 2011 the Washington Traffic Commission is reminding residents about their “Drive Hammered, Get Nailed” campaign. Drive Hammered, Get Nailed « Washington Traffic Safety Commission

During this time law enforcement will be conducting additional DUI patrols. Law enforcement wants to remind people that are attending holiday functions to either call a cab or use a designated driver.  In 2009 alone, there were 41,000 people charged with a DUI in Washington State.

Be aware of what steps you can take to minimize your chances of being charged with a DUI:

• If you are the host of party, be sure to not let your guests drive home drunk. Call them a cab if they need one. Also be sure that you serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks. Remember that serving coffee to your guests after an evening of drinking does not sober them up, it just makes them wide awake and intoxicated.

• Remember that you can receive a DUI while driving a snowmobile or ATV. These vehicles are extremely dangerous because of their high speed and lack of seatbelts.

• Do not talk on your cell phone. Cell phones drastically reduce your ability to focus on the road.

• If you do get pulled over, contact our office. A DUI conviction can be a life altering event. Give yourself every opportunity to obtain the best possible outcome.

What should I do if I’m cited for DUI?

If you do get pulled over for DUI, Washington State has strict penalties for those cited and charged with DUI, so it is important that you speak with an experienced DUI attorney.  There are crucial steps that must be taken within 20 days of receiving a citation for DUI so the sooner you speak with an attorney, the sooner you will be able to learn more about your case and the penalties you may be facing.