How to Avoid a DUI on the Fourth of July

On the Fourth of July, we celebrate our nation’s independence by throwing a pool party, barbequing, setting off fireworks, and even consuming alcohol beverages. Unfortunately, many people end up drunk driving on this day. How to Avoid a DUI on the Fourth of JulyAccording to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Independence Day is the deadliest holiday for fatal car accidents. In fact, the Fourth of July is the number one holiday for beer purchases. In order to deter drunk driving and keep the public safe, the police will set up checkpoints and patrol the streets in full force to arrest suspected drunk drivers. With a significant increase in the presence of law enforcement, it is important to be aware of the likelihood of spending the holiday—or perhaps the rest of the weekend—behind bars. The following are several ways you can avoid getting a DUI on the Fourth of July:
  • Avoid drinking – You can’t be charged with drunk driving if you haven’t had a sip of alcohol that day. You could even be the designated driver and help get others home safe.
  • Avoid driving – However, if you do happen to partake in the festivities, do not even think about getting behind the wheel. If you do not have your own designated driver, you can either request a ride from an Uber/Lyft driver or a taxi service.
  • Spend the night – If you are celebrating the holiday far away from home, consider asking the host of the party or a friend who lives close by if you can sleepover. On the other hand, you can also spend the night in a hotel or motel.
  • Host a party – If you want to celebrate the holiday without leaving your home, why don’t you throw a party at your place? Remember to keep your eye on all your guests to ensure they are responsible. Offer your guests the option of sleeping over or contacting an Uber/Lyft for them.
If you have been arrested for a DUI in West Virginia, contact The Wagner Law Firm today at (304) 461-6000 and schedule a free consultation today.
Harley Wagner Avatar

Harley Wagner

Attorney Thomas M. Cooley School of Law, National College for DUI Defense, West Virginia State Bar

Harley has represented over 3,000 citizens throughout West Virginia. He is the author of West Virginia DUI Defense, The Law and Practice, which is the go to handbook for many magistrates, judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, and law enforcement throughout West Virginia. has been selected for inclusion in West Virginia Super Lawyers® eight times.

He maintains an AV Preeminent® Rating by with Martindale-Hubbell®, an Avvo Rating of 10.0, and an excellent annual rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Harley is also the past president of the national DUI Defense Lawyers Association (2020-2021) which he was Charter Member and founder of in 2014

Areas of Expertise: DUI Defense, Aggravated DUI, Alternative Sentencing, Boating Under the Influence, Commercial License DUI, DMV Hearings, DUI Drugs, DUI with Injury, DUI Causing Death, Out-of-State Resident DUI, DUI Immigration Consequences, DUI with Minor in Vehicle, DUI Child Endangerment, Fleeing a DUI, Felony DUI, Permitting DUI, Underage DUI, Multiple DUI, First-Offense DUI, Second-Offense DUI, Third-Offense DUI, DUI Testing, Field Sobriety Tests, Breathalyzer, Blood Testing, DUI Info Center, College Student DUI, DUI Checkpoints, DUI Court Dates, DUI Deferral Program, Implied Consent, Test & Lock Program, FAQ, DUI Penalties, Administrative License Revocation, Ignition Interlock Device, License Suspension