Why OUI Arrests Increase Around the Holidays

As the Thanksgiving season approaches, police departments across Rhode Island intensify patrols and public messaging about the dangers of impaired driving. With larger gatherings, late-night travel, and alcohol-focused celebrations, law enforcement often sees a spike in OUI-related stops and arrests during this period.

Police emphasize that impaired driving puts everyone at risk and can lead to life-changing legal consequences. Increased patrols, targeted enforcement, and a lower tolerance for erratic driving behaviors are common during holiday weekends.

The Serious Consequences of an OUI Charge

An Operating Under the Influence (OUI) arrest is more than just an inconvenience — it can produce long-term consequences, including:

• Criminal charges and court involvement

• License suspension

• Fines, probation, or mandatory classes

• Increased insurance rates

• Employment and professional licensing problems

• Permanent damage to your personal record

Even first-time offenders may face steep penalties, depending on the circumstances.

How Me and My Team Defend OUI Cases

At The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett, we focus on identifying weaknesses in the State's case. Many OUI arrests involve questionable traffic stops, improper field sobriety testing, or unreliable breathalyzer results.

Me and my team regularly challenge issues such as:

• Whether the traffic stop was lawful

• Whether field sobriety tests were administered correctly

• Whether breathalyzer machines were maintained and calibrated properly

• Whether police followed required procedures

We have successfully suppressed breath test results, exposed inconsistent police testimony, and won dismissals and not-guilty verdicts for clients across Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

If you plan on celebrating, consider:

• Arranging a sober ride

• Avoiding driving after even small amounts of alcohol

• Staying overnight if you're unsure of your sobriety

• Planning ahead before attending events

The safest—and legally smartest—choice is to avoid driving after drinking altogether.

What to Do If You're Arrested for OUI

If you or someone you know is stopped or charged with OUI:

• Stay calm and polite

• Do not make statements beyond basic identifying information

• Take note of how the stop and tests were handled

• Contact an OUI defense attorney immediately

Early legal intervention often makes a significant difference in the outcome.

Contact Us

If you're facing an OUI charge this holiday season, don't wait. The decisions you make in the first 24 hours can impact the entire case. Me and my team at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett are here to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.

📍 Cranston Office: 1000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, RI 02920
📞 Phone: 401.425.4059

📍 Wellesley Office: 572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 Phone: 857.229.2442

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us help you move forward with confidence.