At David W. Martin Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys in South Carolina know that DUIs tend to increase during the summer months due to a combination of factors. Firstly, there are more social events, celebrations, and holidays—including Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day—where alcohol consumption is common.
Additionally, the warmer weather encourages outdoor activities, including beach parties, barbecues, and festivals, where people are more likely to drink. Vacation time also means more people are traveling, often to destinations where they may indulge in alcohol.
Furthermore, extended daylight hours contribute to longer social gatherings that can lead to increased drinking. The increased traffic on the roads from both locals and tourists can further exacerbate the risk of alcohol-related accidents.
If you are arrested for driving under the influence in South Carolina, there are several steps you can take to help protect your legal rights and options from the start.
What You Should Do If You Are Arrested for a DUI in South Carolina
If you are arrested for a DUI in South Carolina, it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate action to protect your rights and minimize potential consequences.
First, while interacting with law enforcement, stay calm and polite with the arresting officers. Do not resist arrest or argue, as this can worsen your situation.
Next, you have the right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer any questions without an attorney present to avoid self-incrimination.
As soon as you can, write down everything you remember about the incident, including the events leading up to your arrest, interactions with the police, and any field sobriety or breathalyzer tests performed.
Then, contact our skilled South Carolina DUI attorney as soon as possible. Our experienced lawyer can help navigate the legal process, advise you on your rights, and build a defense strategy, starting by requesting a DMV hearing.
In South Carolina, you have 30 days to request a hearing with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles to challenge an automatic suspension of your driver’s license after being arrested for a DUI. Our dedicated DUI defense attorney will leverage his experience to significantly improve your chances of retaining your driving privileges, minimizing the impact of a DUI arrest on your life.
In addition, as your attorney, we will thoroughly analyze all aspects of your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop, the administration and accuracy of field sobriety tests, and the calibration of breathalyzer equipment.
We can challenge the evidence against you by identifying procedural errors or violations of your rights, potentially leading to reduced charges or even case dismissal. Additionally, we can negotiate with prosecutors to minimize penalties, such as securing a plea deal involving lesser charges or alternative sentencing options like community service or rehabilitation programs.
Have You Been Arrested for DUI in South Carolina?
Contact our David W. Martin Law Group DUI defense attorneys in South Carolina today by calling (803)-548-2468 or contact us online to confidently move forward and ensure you understand your rights and the legal process, providing guidance and support throughout the case.
