Gamecock football is a tradition that brings thousands of fans into Lexington every fall. Tailgating is a big part of the experience, with many people enjoying beer and other alcoholic beverages before, during, and after the game. Unfortunately, the excitement of a football Saturday often leads to an increase in DUI arrests in and around Williams-Brice Stadium.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, City of Lexington Police, and the University of South Carolina Police Department are all out in full force during home games. Officers are on the lookout for impaired driving, and DUI checkpoints and traffic stops are common in the hours following the game.
How DUI Arrests Happen After USC Games
It is not unusual for drivers to be stopped for speeding, running a red light, or even just driving away from tailgating lots. Once law enforcement suspects alcohol may be involved, the stop can quickly escalate into a DUI investigation. Officers may request field sobriety tests and a breath sample. If a driver refuses or provides a breath sample of 0.15 or higher, they face an immediate driver’s license suspension under South Carolina’s implied consent law.
Implied Consent Suspensions and Your License
A DUI arrest in Lexington is only the beginning. If you refused the breath test or blew 0.15 or higher, the DMV will suspend your license. This suspension is separate from the criminal court process and happens automatically.
Our office helps clients fight implied consent suspensions. By requesting an administrative hearing with the Office of Motor Vehicle Hearings, it is possible to challenge the suspension. In the meantime, we can also help you obtain a Temporary Alcohol License so you can legally drive while waiting for your hearing. This can make a tremendous difference in being able to continue working, going to school, or taking care of your family.
Why You Need a Lawyer After a Gamecock DUI Arrest
The consequences of a DUI conviction in South Carolina include fines, jail time, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education, and a permanent criminal record. These penalties are even more severe for those who refused testing or provided a high breath test result. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner we can begin working to challenge the evidence and protect your rights.
At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we represent clients facing DUI charges throughout Lexington, including those arrested after University of South Carolina football games. We understand how aggressively these cases are pursued by law enforcement and prosecutors, and we know how to respond. Our services include fighting the DUI charge in criminal court as well as addressing the implied consent suspension with the DMV.
Call for Help Today
If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI after a USC football game, do not wait to get help. Same-day appointments are typically available, and we can begin working on restoring your license immediately. Call (803) 359-3301 today to schedule your consultation.
James Snell is the author of South Carolina DUI Defense: The Law and Practice. He has over twenty years experience in representing clients with DUI charges in Lexington and Columbia, South Carolina. He is a member of the National College for DUI Defense, and has completed training courses in police DUI investigation techniques.
Disclaimer: Every case is unique. Prior results obtained by the attorney in one matter do not indicate that similar results will be obtained for other clients in other matters.