Thanksgiving Eve, or “Blackout Wednesday,” marks one of the busiest nights for bars and gatherings in New Hampshire. Unfortunately, this festive occasion often leads to a surge in DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) arrests as people celebrate before the holiday. With law enforcement stepping up patrols, the risk of being pulled over for a suspected DWI increases, especially if you’ve been drinking. If you find yourself stopped by the police on Thanksgiving Eve, it’s important to understand what happens next. This post will guide you through the steps that follow a Thanksgiving Eve DWI stop, explain the potential legal consequences, and offer insight into how Tenn And Tenn, PA can help you navigate the situation.
The Dangers of Thanksgiving Eve Driving in New Hampshire
Thanksgiving Eve is often considered one of the busiest and most festive nights of the year, with many people heading out to bars and friends’ houses to kick off the holiday. In New Hampshire, the night is famously known as “Blackout Wednesday,” as people tend to drink heavily to celebrate before the Thanksgiving festivities. However, with increased celebrations comes the increased risk of DWI arrests. Law enforcement agencies across the state step up patrols, knowing that more drivers on the road are under the influence of alcohol or other substances.Statistics consistently show that the number of DWI arrests spikes on this night, as people who have been drinking make the decision to get behind the wheel. Unfortunately, alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, making it more likely for accidents to occur. If you are driving on Thanksgiving Eve and you’ve consumed alcohol, the chances of being pulled over for a DWI increase dramatically. Knowing the possible consequences of a DWI arrest and understanding the legal process that follows is crucial for any New Hampshire driver.
What Happens When You Are Pulled Over for DWI?
Once a police officer pulls you over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the situation can quickly become overwhelming. Police officers are trained to spot signs of impairment, such as swerving between lanes, speeding, or erratic driving. If you have been drinking, it’s important to remain calm and respectful when interacting with the officer.When you are stopped for suspected DWI, the officer will likely ask you to perform a series of field sobriety tests. These tests are designed to assess your coordination, balance, and ability to follow instructions. Some of the most common field tests include the Walk-and-Turn test, the One-Leg Stand test, and the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test. While these tests are meant to assess impairment, it’s important to note that they are not always reliable. Many factors, including anxiety, fatigue, or physical conditions, can cause individuals to perform poorly even when they are sober.If you fail the field sobriety tests, the officer may ask you to submit to a breathalyzer test to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC). New Hampshire has an implied consent law, meaning that by driving a vehicle, you are agreeing to take such tests if requested by a law enforcement officer. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test in New Hampshire carries severe consequences, including an automatic 180-day suspension of your driver’s license for a first offense.
Field Sobriety Tests: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Field sobriety tests are commonly used by police officers to determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These tests are typically performed at the roadside and can help officers assess whether further testing, such as a breathalyzer or blood test, is necessary.The Walk-and-Turn test requires the driver to take nine steps in a straight line, turn around, and return in the opposite direction. This test assesses balance, coordination, and the ability to follow instructions. Similarly, the One-Leg Stand test involves balancing on one leg while counting out loud. Both of these tests can be difficult for people who are nervous or not in peak physical condition, leading to inaccurate results.The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test is another common field sobriety test. It involves following an object, typically a pen or the officer’s finger, with your eyes while keeping your head still. This test measures the involuntary jerking of the eyes, which can indicate alcohol impairment. However, it’s worth noting that HGN can be influenced by other factors such as fatigue or medical conditions, making it an unreliable indicator of intoxication on its own.Although these tests are commonly used, they are not foolproof. If you are stopped for DWI and asked to perform these tests, it’s essential to know that you have the right to refuse them. However, refusing to perform these tests can result in immediate penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license.
What to Expect After a Breathalyzer Test
If you are asked to take a breathalyzer test, it’s important to understand the implications of the results. In New Hampshire, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired for drivers over the age of 21. However, if your BAC exceeds the legal limit, you may face criminal charges.If you refuse the breathalyzer test, New Hampshire’s implied consent laws come into play. Refusing to take the test can result in an automatic 180-day license suspension for a first offense and a longer suspension for subsequent offenses. The refusal may also be used against you in court, which can make your case more challenging to defend.
The Legal Process After a Thanksgiving Eve DWI Arrest
Once you are arrested for DWI, the legal process begins. After your arrest, you will likely be taken to a police station for booking, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and the collection of additional information. You may be required to post bail and wait for a hearing before a judge. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be given the option to hire a private attorney or be appointed a public defender.At this point, your attorney will play a vital role in your case. Tenn And Tenn, PA specializes in DWI defense in New Hampshire. Our team will investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of field sobriety tests, and whether the breathalyzer test was properly administered.
Penalties for a DWI Conviction in New Hampshire
The penalties for a DWI conviction in New Hampshire can be severe, depending on whether it is your first offense or if you have previous convictions. Here are some common penalties for DWI in New Hampshire:
First Offense: A first offense DWI in New Hampshire can result in a license suspension for up to nine months, fines, and mandatory participation in an alcohol education program.
Second Offense: A second DWI offense can lead to a license suspension for up to three years, significant fines, and mandatory alcohol treatment.
Third Offense: For a third DWI offense, penalties can include up to seven years of license suspension, mandatory treatment, and potentially jail time. Additionally, those convicted may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle.
Additionally, a DWI conviction can impact your insurance premiums, driving record, and future employment opportunities. It is essential to take these charges seriously and consult an experienced attorney to discuss your options.
How Tenn And Tenn, PA Can Help You Fight a DWI Charge
If you have been arrested for DWI on Thanksgiving Eve in New Hampshire, Tenn And Tenn, PA is here to help. Our team of criminal defense attorneys has years of experience representing clients in DWI cases, and we understand the complexities of New Hampshire’s DWI laws.We will thoroughly investigate your case, including reviewing the evidence, challenging the accuracy of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results, and negotiating with prosecutors to reduce the severity of your charges. If necessary, we will defend your case in court to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.Thanksgiving Eve, or “Blackout Wednesday,” is a time of celebration, but it’s also a time when DWI arrests are more common than ever. Understanding the process that follows a Thanksgiving Eve DWI stop in New Hampshire can help you navigate the legal challenges that may arise. With the help of Tenn And Tenn, PA, you can ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.If you’ve been arrested for DWI, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Tenn And Tenn, PA today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced DWI attorneys.
