Every year, there are more DUI arrests in the summer months than in the winter months. To some degree, this may happen because officers are on high alert. They know that this is something they should be looking out for and so they put more time, energy and attention into it. That focus can lead to a direct increase in arrest numbers in the same way it would if they focused on anything other particular kind of wrongdoing.
But why is it that the summer is such a big season for drunk driving? Why is it that this is when the police must focus on DUI arrests? There are a few things to consider.
Social activities and holidays
To begin with, there are a lot of outdoor social activities that people engage in during the summer, such as backyard barbecues with friends or camping trips. There are also holidays, such as the Fourth of July, which are well-known for drinking. All of these events may make drunk driving more likely, especially over specific weekends in the summer.
Good weather and longer days
The change in the weather also leads to an increase in drunk driving arrests, but this may not be due to a change in drinking habits. It’s just that the days are longer and the weather is nicer, so people are more likely to drink outside of home-based settings. They may go to the bar with friends or stay out late at summer concerts. During the winter, knowing they may have to contend with poor weather and the short daylight hours, people are more likely to stay home.
Students aren’t in school
Finally, the summer can be something of a holiday for both high school students and college students. They don’t have to attend class. This gives them more time to drive, which often leads to a rise in car accidents. But it may also mean that there is more drinking and driving. This could especially be true for college students who are used to drinking – even if they’re underage – on campus or in an apartment complex. During the summer, when they live at home with their parents, they may drive to other locations to partake in these activities.
Fighting a DUI charge
Someone who is arrested on DUI charges this summer certainly needs to know about all the legal options they have. There are ways to fight these charges, and seeking legal guidance can help to clarify those opportunities.
