As the New Year begins, many Washington drivers hit the road for work, winter getaways, or to celebrate with family and friends. But what many don’t realize is that the first few months of the year often bring increased DUI enforcement across the state. Law enforcement agencies ramp up patrols and roadside checks from January through March, leading to more arrests and higher penalties for drivers who may have simply made one bad decision.
If you’ve been arrested for a New Year DUI in Washington, don’t wait to get help. Contact Hester Law Group today or call (253) 300-3034 to speak with a defense attorney who can help protect your rights and guide you forward.
Why DUI Enforcement Increases Early in the Year
After the holidays, Washington law enforcement continues to focus on impaired driving. This is partly due to New Year’s Eve and Super Bowl events—both of which often involve alcohol—and the state’s goal to reduce accidents caused by impaired drivers.
During this time, police departments across the state work with the Washington State Patrol on DUI emphasis patrols, meaning:
- More officers are on the road, specifically looking for signs of impaired driving.
- Sobriety checkpoints and roadside stops are more common in areas near bars, sports venues, and entertainment districts.
- Data-driven patrols target areas with a history of higher DUI incidents.
Even drivers who think they are being cautious—like those taking medication, feeling tired, or driving after “just one drink”—may end up facing DUI charges when enforcement is at its peak.
Understanding DUI Laws in Washington
In Washington, a DUI charge can be based on alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% for most drivers, but a person can still be arrested below that limit if an officer believes they are impaired.
Here’s how DUI laws generally work in Washington:
- Blood or breath tests are used to measure alcohol levels in the body.
- Field sobriety tests may be performed, though they are not always reliable indicators.
- Refusing a breath test can result in an automatic license suspension under Washington’s implied consent law.
You can learn more about Washington’s DUI laws and defense options here.
Even a first-time DUI can bring serious consequences: fines, license suspension, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and possible jail time.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make After a DUI Arrest
Facing a DUI arrest can be frightening. Many people don’t know what to do next—and simple mistakes can make things worse. Some of the most common include:
- Talking too much to law enforcement before speaking to a lawyer.
- Assuming guilt and pleading without understanding all options.
- Ignoring court dates or deadlines for requesting a hearing to keep your license.
- Failing to prepare for how a DUI charge might affect employment or travel plans.
The best step anyone can take immediately after an arrest is to speak with a defense attorney who understands how Washington prosecutors handle DUI cases.
Why January–March DUIs Can Be Tougher to Fight
There are a few reasons DUIs early in the year can be more challenging:
- Increased patrol documentation: When law enforcement conducts targeted DUI patrols, reports tend to be more detailed, making it harder to challenge them.
- Cold weather and health factors: Conditions such as fatigue, dehydration, or the use of winter medications can mimic signs of impairment, but are often misinterpreted by officers.
- Prosecutor awareness: During DUI emphasis periods, prosecutors may be less flexible about plea deals or dismissals.
Despite these challenges, a strong defense can uncover weaknesses in the state’s evidence—such as inaccurate breath test results, procedural errors, or a lack of probable cause for the stop.
Building a Strong Defense Against a New Year DUI in Washington
A DUI charge does not automatically mean a conviction. An experienced defense lawyer can review every part of the case to identify errors or inconsistencies. Common defense strategies include:
- Questioning the legality of the traffic stop — Did the officer have a valid reason to pull the driver over?
- Challenging field sobriety tests — Were they properly administered, and are the results reliable?
- Analyzing breath or blood test accuracy — Equipment can malfunction or be improperly calibrated.
- Examining officer conduct and paperwork — Mistakes in police reports or evidence handling can lead to case dismissal.
The right legal guidance can make the difference between a conviction and a reduced or dismissed charge.
What To Do If You’re Arrested for a DUI Early in the Year
If you’re stopped or arrested for a DUI during the winter months, remember:
- Stay calm and cooperative — but avoid volunteering information beyond what’s required.
- Do not assume guilt — field or breath test results can be challenged later.
- Request legal representation immediately.
- Write down everything you remember about the stop as soon as possible.
Taking these steps early gives your defense team valuable information to begin building your case.
Tacoma DUI Lawyer
Early-year DUI arrests are common—but every case is different. You deserve a defense that takes your situation seriously and protects your rights at every stage of the process.
Reach out to Hester Law Group today or call (253) 300-3034 to schedule a consultation. Our team has decades of experience defending against DUI charges in Washington and can help you navigate the legal system with confidence.
Learn more about DUI defense strategies in Washington and take action now to protect your future.