New Jersey Lawyer News
While most New Jersey residents view the month of December as a time to be with loved ones, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety understands that the end-of-the-year holiday season is a time of increased driving while intoxicated (DWI) accidents and casualties. Every year, an unfortunate number of partygoers and revelers fail to plan ahead and risk being arrested for DWI.
If you have been arrested, it is important to contact an aggressive and knowledgeable NJ criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
According to New Jersey law (NJSA 39:4-50), a person is considered guilty of drunk driving if he or she has a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08 percent or higher or has permitted another person to driver with a BAC over .08 percent. It is also illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs, such as a narcotic, a habit-producing drug, or a hallucinogen.
The consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in New Jersey are measured by degrees and can include a fine, imprisonment, a suspended driver’s license, and required attendance at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center.
In order to avoid facing criminal charges this year, remember the following tips:
- Plan your trip ahead of time. Take public transportation or designate a sober driver to avoid any danger of getting behind the wheel after enjoying a drink or two.
- Host your own holiday festivities at home. Help your guests avoid a DWI charge by limiting alcohol consumption, prohibiting the use of drugs, and contacting cab companies or allowing your guests to sleep over if they cannot drive.
- Always have the numbers for several cab companies programmed into your phone. If you see someone who looks like they should not be driving, offer to call a taxi for them.
In an effort to reduce the number of impaired fatalities on the road this year, New Jersey Police will be increasing enforcement efforts throughout the state. If you or a loved one has been arrested for DWI, please do not hesitate to contact the highly experienced criminal defense lawyers at Lubiner, Schmidt & Palumbo to ensure that you obtain the best possible outcome for your circumstances. Call us at (844) 288-7978.