The Dangers of Alcohol and Labor Day Weekend in Oklahoma

Simon Harwood has a unique perspective on the negative and positive effects of alcohol. As the managing partner of the well-known Tulsa law firm Fry & Elder, Harwood understand the legal ramifications that can occur when alcohol is present of consumer. He also understands that spirits or a beer or two around the barbecue have a way of bringing people together and relaxing inhibitions as the owner of Collins Midtown Liquor Store in Tulsa.

“Yes, it is a little contradictory I suppose,” Simon Harwood says. “I think when consumed in moderation and responsibly, alcohol can be a good thing in social situations. I also think that there need to be a healthy respect of alcohol and problems it can potentially ignite – both legally and health wise.”

Labor Day hits Oklahoma this weekend, and Harwood figures his liquor store and law firm could be busy. Because of the three-day weekend that signifies the end of the summer, Harwood hopes everyone has a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend in Oklahoma with friends and family.

However, statistics and reports, indicate that Labor Day is often one of the most dangerous weekends on Oklahoma roads and highways.

According to a Neighbors Building Neighborhoods press release, during the 2022 Labor Day holiday, there were 490 crash fatalities nationwide. Of these 490 traffic crash fatalities, 39% involved a drunk driver, and 25% involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost twice the legal limit (.15+ BAC). Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2022, 47% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.

With data like this, it is not surprising that Oklahoma police and highway patrol double-down on their efforts to increase law enforcement and establish multiple DUI checkpoints throughout the state to reduce drunk driving.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Lisa Jorgensen had this to say in a 2021 News 9 report in regards to Labor Day in Oklahoma.

According to the report, “Trooper Jorgensen says they pull over more drunk drivers on holiday weekends.”

Jorgensen added, “With the extra day off work, going to the lake, drinking at the football games,” she says. “People don’t realize they’ve had too much to drink to drive safely.”

She also says this isn’t a new trend. According to OHP, Labor Day Weekend in 2021 saw 53 crashes related to drugs or alcohol, which resulted in two deaths.

The Dangers of Alcohol and Labor Day Weekend in Oklahoma

One of the more popular destinations to visit Labor Day Weekend in Oklahoma is Grand Lake. The destination sees an increase in activity during holiday weekends like Labor Day. With the influx of visitors for boating, camping, and other recreational activities, there is also an elevated risk of alcohol-related incidents, including DUIs.

In Oklahoma, law enforcement agencies, including the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) and local police departments, typically step up their presence around holidays. They may set up DUI checkpoints, increase patrols, and use other strategies to deter impaired driving. Grand Lake, being a hotspot, is often a focus of these efforts.

• Increased Law Enforcement Presence: Expect to see more officers patrolling the roads leading to and from Grand Lake, as well as on the water itself. They will be on the lookout for signs of impaired driving and boating under the influence (BUI).
• Checkpoints: Law enforcement may establish DUI checkpoints at key locations around Grand Lake. These are designed to catch drivers under the influence before they can cause harm.
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Officers will also be patrolling the lake to check for boaters who may be operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties for BUI in Oklahoma can be severe and are similar to those for DUI.
• Education and Awareness Campaigns: Prior to the holiday, there are often public awareness campaigns encouraging people to designate sober drivers or use alternative transportation methods.
• Collaboration with Local Businesses: Restaurants, bars, and other businesses around Grand Lake may participate in campaigns to prevent DUIs by offering discounts to designated drivers or providing information about safe travel options.

Tips for Staying Safe:

• Designate a Sober Driver: If you plan to drink, make sure someone in your group stays sober to drive or operate a boat.
• Use Rideshare Services: Consider using rideshare options or local taxi services to get around if you’ve been drinking.
• Stay Overnight: If possible, consider staying overnight rather than driving home after a day at the lake.
• Be Aware of BUI Laws: Remember that Oklahoma’s BUI laws are strict, and operating a boat while impaired can result in significant penalties.

By planning ahead and making safe choices, you can enjoy your Labor Day weekend at Grand Lake without putting yourself or others at risk.

However, if you did make a mistake over Labor Day Weekend in Oklahoma, that resulted in being charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or BUI (Boating Under the Influence) understand that the consequences of a conviction can be severe, and the legal process can be complex.

Consulting with a knowledgeable Tulsa DUI defense attorney is crucial if you find yourself facing such charges.

Hiring a lawyer if charged with DUI or BUI over Labor Day weekend is essential to ensuring the best possible outcome for your case. The legal system is complex, and the stakes are high, especially with the increased law enforcement presence during holiday weekends. A lawyer’s expertise, knowledge, and experience can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, helping you protect your rights and your future.

Should you or someone you know need legal assistance this Labor Day weekend, don’t hesitate contact Fry & Elder to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Tulsa DUI defense attorney if you or someone you know.