The holidays are approaching fast and you may already be starting to plan festivities for your family or place of work. Alcohol is often found at seasonal parties and there are many exciting drinks made especially for the holidays.

That said, New York also sees an uptick in DWI stops during the holiday season. Here’s how you can avoid criminal charges while still enjoying the festivities.

Know How Much Alcohol You Can Consume Under the Legal Limit

To legally operate your vehicle, you must have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below 0.08%. Above this limit will result in your arrest. There are a wide variety of factors that impact how quickly your body is able to metabolize alcohol, such as gender, weight, if you’ve recently eaten a meal, what type of alcohol you’ve consumed, and how quickly you’ve consumed it.

There are a few online applications that allow you to get in the ballpark of your BAC after entering the above information. Or, you can invest in an inexpensive portable breathalyzer test.

Have a Designated Driver

If you know you’ll be consuming alcoholic beverages, your safest bet is to set up a designated driver in advance. However, you should at minimum ensure that you have a Plan B that includes calling a friend or getting an Uber if you’ve gone a little overboard and it’s not possible to sober up before driving.

If Pulled Over, Don’t Agree to a Field Sobriety Test

Contrary to popular belief, field sobriety tests aren’t legally required by law. You do have the right to decline a field sobriety test and doing so is usually in your best interests. You only have to exit your vehicle if the police are arresting you and taking you into law enforcement custody and should not do so at any other time.

If Arrested, Contact a Brooklyn DWI Lawyer

A DWI lawyer is your best ally after being arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated. Your attorney will help you create a solid defense using the evidence available in your case to increase the chances that the charges against you will be dismissed or reduced.

Call Mark Cossuto Now for More Information

Were you arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol? There are numerous possible defenses you can use to protect your rights and your criminal record depending on the evidence available in your case. Don’t hesitate to contact Brooklyn DWI lawyer Mark Cossuto for your consultation at (718) 852-8047 or toll-free at (800) 609-4545.