Amerio Law Firm in Sacramento Discusses Holiday DUIs

SACRAMENTO, CA--(Marketwired - Dec 12, 2014) - The holidays are a time of parties and family gatherings, but they are also traditionally a time when DUI numbers spike. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, about 172,000 people are arrested every year in California for drunk driving. A significant number of these arrests occur during holiday times, particularly the period between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.

Amerio Law Firm offers representation to those who have been accused of DUI. These attorneys have years of experience in dealing with the criminal justice system, in particular the segment of it concerning charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. These attorneys are offering some advice to those who may be driving during the holiday season to help them avoid DUI charges and to know what to do if they are stopped.

"The most important thing you can do to prevent a DUI charge is to use a designated driver," says an Amerio Law Firm attorney. "If you are not driving, you do not risk a DUI charge and you do not risk causing an accident that could be tragic for you and for others."

The attorney goes on to say that understanding your rights is also important. "It is just as important to know what to do if you are pulled over. If a police officer asks you questions, you have the right to refuse to answer. You also have the right to refuse to perform field sobriety tests. Your best bet is usually to be polite but firmly refuse to answer any questions about whether you have been drinking and to avoid field sobriety tests, which will not help your case."

There are different types of breathalyzer tests. According to Attorney Ashley Amerio, "You should refuse a PAS (Preliminary Alcohol Screening Device) breath test given on the side of the road, as it is just another type of Field Sobriety Test. However, do not refuse a blood, breath or urine test administered at the jail (usually) after you've been arrested. Refusing the chemical test after being arrested will likely result in an automatic year driver's license suspension, even if we can beat the DUI charge!"

About Amerio Law Firm: Amerio Law Firm offers help for those accused of drunk driving in the Sacramento area. Clients who have been arrested or charged with DUI will find compassionate, professional representation with the experienced attorneys at the Amerio Law Firm.