As the summer months are finally upon us, it’s a common time for celebration. Every weekend is jam packed with picnics, road trips, beach days and vacations. Not only are more people out on the roadways, many are having a few cocktails beforehand. Unfortunately, with that comes an increase in traffic violations, most commonly DUI’s, distracted driving, speeding, and failure to use a seatbelt. Be sure to avoid an unwanted arrest or senseless tragedy this summer by playing it safe and monitoring alcohol consumption, taking into consideration the many factors that play into your level of intoxication.
Increase in Law Enforcement
Fairs, concerts, festivals, the US Open – these events not only attract the general public but law enforcement as well. Law enforcement officials are out in full force and on a close lookout for impaired drivers. The main goal of law enforcement during this especially dangerous time is to prevent boating and driving under the influence related accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “a higher volume of holiday travelers, including a significantly higher number of alcohol-impaired drivers, cause nearly twice the number of automotive deaths during summer months than during the rest of the year combined.” If you decide to have a few drinks, refrain from driving. Designate a driver or call a taxi, Lyft, or Uber.
Heat and Alcohol a Dangerous Combination
When the temperature rises, it is natural to reach for something cold to drink. In high temperatures, a person is already losing fluids through your sweat. Alcohol acts as a diuretic that drains the body of necessary fluid at a time needed most. Oftentimes a person will drink more in the heat because he or she feels thirsty. If that drink contains alcohol, the person will reach a higher level of intoxication at a faster rate, and may not realize their level of impairment. Be sure to alternate alcoholic beverages with water to avoid the risk of dehydration and more serious heat-related illnesses. You can also play it safe by purchasing your own device to track your blood alcohol concentration, such as a backtrack . It takes some of the guesswork out of knowing your BAC, however it is not foolproof. Delayed absorption could give a user of such a device a false sense of security by believing they are within the legal limits, only finding out later their level has risen, even though no additional alcohol had been consumed.
Many Contributing Factors to Blood Alcohol Concentration
It is important to remember that your BAC will change at a different rate each time you consume alcohol based on many factors. The rate alcohol is consumed plays a significant role in your BAC. The strength of the alcohol you drink also plays a role in your BAC, whereas drinks with higher alcohol concentrations may cause the pyloric valve to seize, delaying absorption by hours. Conversely, drinks with a lesser alcohol content such as mixed drinks or beer tend to be absorbed much more quickly. Cigarette smoking also slows stomach emptying and therefore delays maximum absorption of the alcohol.
Have You Been Arrested? Contact the Law Offices of Dineen Defense Firm
If you or someone you love was accused of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is crucial that you contact highly skilled legal representation right away. Dineen Defense Firm has offices conveniently located throughout eastern Wisconsin. Attorneys Nathan J. Dineen and Daniel R. Skarie practice 100% DUI/OWI and are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you might have. Dineen and Skarie will Call our local office at 920-818-1102, or contact us online to schedule your FREE consultation today!
