Summer holidays in Missouri bring backyard barbecues, lake trips, and fireworks. Unfortunately, they also bring increased DWI arrests. Police across the state ramp up patrols during these weekends, looking for impaired drivers and conducting sobriety checkpoints. A single arrest can lead to serious legal, financial, and personal consequences.
If you’re planning to celebrate, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.
Missouri’s DWI Laws
In Missouri, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, it’s 0.02%.
Missouri law also prohibits operating a vehicle while “in an intoxicated or drugged condition.” That restriction includes alcohol, prescription medications, illegal drugs, and marijuana, even if you have a prescription or it was purchased legally.
Penalties vary depending on whether it’s your first offense or a repeat charge. A first-time DWI is typically a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- A 90-day license suspension
- Possible ignition interlock requirement
- Court-ordered alcohol education or treatment
Subsequent offenses increase in severity. They can lead to felony charges, mandatory jail time, and long-term license revocation.
Why Summer Holidays Lead to More Arrests
During summer holiday weekends, Missouri law enforcement agencies participate in statewide and national efforts like the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. This often includes:
- Increased patrols in high-traffic areas
- Sobriety checkpoints
- Zero tolerance for impaired driving
The end result is that more people are arrested for DWI—even those who may not have realized they were over the legal limit.
Practical Tips to Stay Safe and Legal
If you’re planning to enjoy a few drinks this summer, here’s how to do it responsibly:
- Designate a sober driver or use a rideshare: Don’t take chances with driving after drinking. Apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available, including in smaller Missouri towns. It’s far cheaper and safer than a DWI charge.
- Know your limits: Even a couple of drinks can put you near or over the legal limit, depending on your size, what you’ve eaten, and how fast you’ve been drinking. Remember that your BAC can keep rising even after you stop drinking.
- Avoid open containers: Missouri prohibits drivers from drinking alcohol in a vehicle. Even an open container near the driver’s seat can put you at risk.
- Don’t rely on home breathalyzers: Portable BAC devices are popular, but they aren’t always accurate. They may give you a false sense of security. If there’s any doubt, don’t drive.
- Be smart at the lake: Missouri Water Patrol officers can arrest boaters under the influence. Bring a sober captain, or wait until you’re off the water to start drinking.
What to Do If You’re Pulled Over
If you do get pulled over during a summer holiday weekend, stay calm and remember these tips:
- Be polite to the officer. Rudeness only escalates the situation.
- You have the right to remain silent. You don’t have to answer questions like “How much have you had to drink?”
- You are not required to perform field sobriety tests (e.g., walking in a straight line). These tests are voluntary.
- Refusing a breath or blood test can lead to automatic license suspension under Missouri’s implied consent law, but it may also limit the evidence prosecutors have against you.
If you’re arrested, call an experienced DWI attorney right away.
Discuss Your Case With a DWI Defense Attorney
Celebrating summer holidays in Missouri should be fun, not the start of a legal nightmare. Don’t let one mistake impact your license and freedom.
If you’ve been charged with DUI or DWI in Missouri, call Travis Noble, P.C. today.