The leaves are falling and the holidays are approaching, so New York drivers can expect the enforcement of DWI laws to become more aggressive, as it always does this time of year. If you are charged with DUI in Queens or in any of the five boroughs over the holiday season, don’t expect the courts to be filled with the holiday spirit. They won’t be. Expect no leniency. You’re going to need legal help just like any other time of the year. After a DWI arrest, immediately arrange to consult with an experienced Long Island DWI attorney who can fight aggressively to protect your rights and interests.

Here’s what you must know about DUI in New York this season:

  • Understand that a designated driver is someone you are trusting with your life. Make sure it’s the right person. Limos, taxis, and buses are available all over Queens, and many operate 24/7/365. Also check out the ride-sharing services and apps such as Uber and Lyft.
  • Bicycling might not be a good alternative. Bicycling while intoxicated is not specifically against the law in New York, but it’s never a good idea, it’s dangerous, and you could still be arrested for public intoxication or public endangerment.

A driving while intoxicated charge is not an automatic DWI conviction, but you will require the counsel of an experienced DUI lawyer who will challenge the state’s case against you and fight vigorously for justice on your behalf. During the holiday season and every season, if you are arrested and charged for driving while intoxicated in Queens or anywhere in the New York City area, act promptly. Make the call at once to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Regardless of how well or poorly you may be driving, it is against the law to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level above 0.08 percent. Don’t think that if you have only one drink every hour, you can legally drive. You can’t. Frankly, you probably shouldn’t drive until the next day after anything more than a 12-ounce beer or 6-ounce glass of wine. Even one beer or one glass of wine can put you over the limit if you weigh a hundred pounds or less. Of course, the wisest approach is no drinking whatsoever if you’re going to drive, and calling a cab or having a designated driver if you’re going to drink.

If you are charged with DUI anywhere in the state of New York, it’s imperative to speak with an experienced DWI attorney as quickly as you can. Your attorney may dispute the arresting officer’s testimony, the DWI test results, or the legality of your traffic stop and arrest. Being charged with DUI doesn’t mean that you’ll be convicted and sentenced, but it does mean that you need to retain the advice and services of an experienced DUI defense attorney. If you face a DWI charge in the state of New York over the holidays or in the new year, speak at once with an experienced Queens DWI lawyer.