St. Patrick’s Day means an increase in Arizona DUI arrests, which is why Corso Law Group warns Valley residents to enjoy the holiday responsibly or face the costly consequences.
Last St. Patrick’s Day, alcohol-fueled events and parties led to dangerous roads. Arizona DUI task forces reported 3,900 arrests over the weekend with 233 related to drunk driving. That number was up from St. Patrick’s Day weekend in 2013, when 212 DUI arrests were made.
Of the 233 people arrested in 2014, 81 reported blood-alcohol levels of 0.15 percent or higher, which is considered an extreme DUI in Arizona, and 10 were underage DUI arrests.
Drunk drivers have the potential to hurt themselves and anyone around them. The only way to prevent these types of accidents from occurring is to never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“Police departments know that holidays, especially those typically celebrated with alcohol like St. Patrick’s Day, result in an increased number of DUIs, and they’re prepared to make the extra arrests,” said Christopher P. Corso, the founding attorney of Corso Law Group.
Corso understands the threats of drinking and driving. He has experience as prosecutors for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, working closely with DUIs, DWIs and OUIs. Combined, they have handled more than 20,000 DUI cases as prosecutors and defense attorneys.
“Knowing what could happen if you were arrested for drunk driving is an important preliminary caution that all Arizona residents should take,” Corso said.
Significant information to know for those suspected of a DUI in Arizona include the right to remain silent; only providing certain documents such as insurance, registration and identification; and refusing to submit to all field sobriety tests. Blood and alcohol tests are the only tests DUI suspects should agree to, according to an attorney at the firm.
In Arizona, DUI consequences are severe, even for first offenders. Anyone found guilty of drinking and driving is required to serve at least 24 hours in jail. Other penalties include expensive fines, suspension of driving privileges, probation and the installation of an ignition interlock device. If any damages or injuries resulted from a DUI accident, these penalties will intensify.
“A DUI offense is serious,” Corso said. “The physical dangers and legal penalties that could arise from drinking and driving should inspire people to plan ahead and stay safe on St. Patrick’s Day.”
To schedule a free consultation with Corso Law Group, please visit www.corsolawgroup.com or call (480) 471-4616. Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.
