As the Fourth of July approaches, tens of thousands of New Hampshire residents are preparing to celebrate with a massive cookout–which often means plenty of hot dogs, hamburgers, beer, and booze. Have fun, but to ensure the day is truly perfect, carefully monitor and limit your alcohol intake, especially if you’re driving. Driving drunk–or even buzzed–can quickly turn a beautiful day into a nightmare.
If you’ve been arrested for drunk or impaired driving in New Hampshire, contact the New Hampshire DWI lawyers at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. Call us today at 888-332-5855 or reach out online for a free consultation. We help clients throughout the state, from Lancaster to Manchester.
July 4th Drunk Driving Statistics
The Fourth of July holiday period is well known for seeing a spike in deadly drunk driving crashes across the country. According to NHTSA, in 2023, 617 people died in traffic crashes during this period, 233 of which were due to drunk driving crashes. The figures for this period were even more pronounced in 2022, with 40 percent of traffic fatalities being related to drunk driving.
The most recent available statistics for New Hampshire show that NH State Police made 41 arrest drunk driving arrests during the Fourth of July period in 2018, with two people killed in a deadly crash.
This year, the State Police have announced that they will conduct DWI saturation patrols throughout the state during the summer, targeting times when impaired driving is most prevalent, such as during holiday periods. So, you can expect to see more police on NH roads and highways during the July 4th period–which means fewer potential tragedies but also a higher risk of arrest if you’re caught driving under the influence.
The Blood Alcohol Limit in New Hampshire
You’d face a DWI conviction if you were caught operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. Commercial drivers and individuals under age 21 are subject to an even stricter standard–you can be convicted of DUI with a BAC level of just 0.02 percent.
If your BAC level is 1.6 percent or higher, no matter your age or status, you’re likely to be charged with an aggravated DWI, which brings even more severe penalties.
Also note that you could also be arrested and convicted of DWI if the police considered you visibly impaired by alcohol or drugs while behind the wheel, regardless of your BAC level.
What Happens After a DWI Arrest in New Hampshire?
If you’re arrested for DWI in New Hampshire, expect several things to happen. First, the State Police will bring you back to the nearest local station, where you’ll be asked to submit to a breathalyzer (if not conducted in the field) or blood or urine test to assess your BAC level. You may refuse to take the test, but if you do, you’ll face an administrative license suspension.
Next, you’ll either be released or held on bail until your first court appearance, depending on the circumstances of your arrest. You might be held on bail, for example, if you are facing aggravated DWI charges or are otherwise considered a danger to the community.
Within 14 days after your arrest, you’ll have your first court appearance, called an arraignment. During the arraignment, the court will formally read the charges against you, and you will respond with a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead guilty or no contest, the judge will pronounce a sentence. If you plead not guilty, you will begin preparing for trial if a plea deal cannot be negotiated beforehand.
Penalties for Impaired Driving in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has some of the harshest penalties for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in the country. A first DWI offense in New Hampshire means mandatory penalties, including a fine ranging from $500 to $1,200, plus a 24 percent assessment. You’ll also face a minimum license loss of 9 months, with a maximum license loss of two years.
Aggravated DWI or a second offense leads to a mandatory jail sentence and a longer minimum license loss. All DUI convictions require a state-approved DUI education program.
Experienced DWI Attorneys in New Hampshire Can Help
If you’re arrested for DWI during this Fourth of July holiday or at any other time, talk to a knowledgeable New Hampshire DWI lawyer as soon as possible. Tenn And Tenn, P.A. has represented countless motorists arrested for DWI throughout New Hampshire, including Lebanon, Portsmouth, and Derry. We understand the range of serious consequences you’ll face and will fight for the best outcome possible on your behalf. Contact us today at 888-332-5855 or online for your free evaluation.