What Happens During The Holidays
The holiday season is now in full swing, and many Albertans are celebrating with family and friends. Many of us will indulge in a cocktail during these celebrations, and some of us may overindulge and decide to drive ourselves home afterwards.
The holiday season in Alberta historically leads to larger increases in drunk driving penalties. For the 2023 holiday season, there were over 189 drivers removed from Alberta roads with over 2,500 tickets issued. Additionally, Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanction Program can create more difficulties for those who are handed a Driving Under the Influence charge (DUI), and can significantly impact your driving privileges. In the majority of cases for Albertans, you only have seven days to appeal the decision provided by the IRS administrators. This is stress you don’t need to have during this busy time of the year, so it is most important to act as soon as possible when you receive a DUI charge.
The Holiday Increase In Drunk Driving Charges
The holiday season can be a very busy season for many Albertans, with calendars full of social gatherings, holiday parties and the joy and merriment of the season. During this time, amongst the delicious treats and drinks, there is a rise in the number of alcoholic beverages consumed. This busy time of the year can contribute to an increase in the number of Albertans making ill-advised choices when it comes to the consumption of alcohol and getting behind the wheel.
What Happens When You Fail A Field Sobriety Test
When you receive a Driving Under the Influence charge (DUI), it refers to the offence of operating a vehicle while under the impairment of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. In the province of Alberta, you may receive this charge if your blood alcohol concentration level (BAC) is above 0.08.
A DUI charge can result from a failed breathalyzer test, a field sobriety test, or other tests that are administered by law enforcement officers. In Alberta, you will receive an Immediate Roadside Sanction if law enforcement determines you’re impaired. This means your licence is seized and suspended immediately. You’ll also be served with a Notice of Administrative Penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
If it is your first DUI offence, in addition to your licence being seized, you will face immediate suspension for 90 days. Drivers will be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program for one year. You may also face a vehicle seizure for up to 30 days, as well as a series of fines. Mandatory completion of the Planning Ahead course will be required to have your licence returned and your vehicle as well.
Taking immediate steps to ensure you have proper legal representation when facing a DUI is crucial in order to explore each possible legal channel for a favourable outcome.
For Holiday DUIs, Contact McGlashan & Company
If you have been given an Immediate Roadside Sanction for an impaired driving charge, you will need a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer like Brian McGlashan who specializes in DUI cases. Brian’s extensive background and intricate knowledge of Immediate Roadside Sanctions make him the lawyer you need when facing these charges. Brian can help assist you with the appeals process, ensuring your case is handled swiftly and efficiently, giving you the best favourable outcome.
Understanding the consequences of a DUI is crucial during the holiday season. With only seven days to appeal an Immediate Roadside Sanction, you should contact a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Brian McGlashan’s experience can help navigate legal complexities and work toward a resolution.
